Selected algae taxa used in the production of biofuels

Abstract

The concept of using algae as a raw material for biofuel production has been gaining popularity in recent years due to the surging cost of crude oil, the rapidly declining natural resources of oil, and issues related to global warming (caused by the burning of fossil fuels). Algae, characterized by lipid contents ranging from 20 to 70%, exhibit considerable potential as energy crops in cultivation. Various biofuels are produced from algae, including biodiesel, bioethanol, biobutanol, methane, and biogas. The main factors influencing algae growth are the availability and intensity of light, temperature, nutrient concentration, and CO 2 availability. Microalgae are grown in open systems (ponds) or closed systems (photobioreactors). Macroalgae, on the other hand, are cultivated in coastal zones of seas or similar aquatic reservoirs. Among microalgae, Botryococcus braunii and Chlorella vulgaris are taxa that produce significant amounts of oil, while the macroalgae commonly cultivated and used for biofuel production is Macrocystis pyrifera.