Work

Morphological response of Arthrospira platensis to cultivation conditions using a microfluidic microscope

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Arthrospira platensis is a filamentous cyanobacterium valued for its high protein content and biotechnological versatility. This study explores the influence of key environmental parameters—temperature, pH, irradiance, and agitation—on both the morphological characteristics and biomass productivity of A. platensis . Using Microdeep™, a novel AI-integrated microfluidic microscope, filament traits such as length, diameter, and structural integrity were quantified alongside dry mass equivalent (DME), serving as a proxy for biomass concentration. Optimal growth conditions were identified at 40 °C, pH 9–10, and an irradiance of 200 μmol·m −2 ·s −1 , under which cultures exhibited maximal filament elongation and biomass yield without structural degradation. Across experimental conditions, filament lengths ranged from 30 to 420 μm and diameters from 6 to 11 μm, highlighting dynamic morphological plasticity. Under adverse conditions—extreme pH (6 or 11), high irradiance (2200 μmol·m −2 ·s −1 ), or non-optimal temperatures (10 or 45 °C)—filaments experienced fragmentation, reduced elongation, and biomass decline, primarily driven by stress-induced necridia formation and photodamage. The Microdeep™ system demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in biomass estimation, with dry matter equivalent measurements showing a linear correlation to gravimetric dry weight (R 2 > 0.99). This confirms its suitability for real-time cultivation monitoring and opens avenues for precision-controlled photobioreactor operations. Overall, the study reinforces the utility of AI-enhanced imaging tools in optimizing microalgal bioprocesses through detailed, quantitative analysis of morphological and physiological traits.

Source: Algal Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2025.104466

Authors: R. Gomez Vico, David-A. Mendels, Agathe Nguyen, M. Barceló-Villalobos, F.G. Acién

Institutions: CentraleSupélec, University of Almería

Language: English

Topic: Algal biology and biofuel production

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,190