Influence of light and temperature on mass multiplication of Spirulina strains

Seven strains of Spirulina, five of S. platensis and one each of S. maxima and S. lonar were examined for their tolerance limits to light at optimal and above optimal temperatures under controlled conditions. All the strains showed maximum growth rate and growth (measured as μg chlorophyll ml⁻¹) at 25 Klux light intensity irrespective of temperature optima, although total chlorophyll was less (0.817–0.936 μg ml⁻¹) at 40°C as compared to optimum temperature of 30°C (0.909–1.129 μg ml⁻¹). At 45 Klux light intensity and 30°C temperature, except ARM 727, all other strains survived and exhibited 62–69% growth, whereas at 40°C temperature none of the strains could survive - a phenomenon of photo inhibition was existing. The most ideal temperature for mass multiplication of spirulina seems to be 30°C at 25 Klux light intensity in Indian conditions.