CHAPTER I
LITTERATURE REVIEW
28
medium in the south region of the country, precisely the area of Tamanrasset, but though the
Spirulina produced locally does not meet the needs for the consumers (Adiba et al., 2014).
3.9 Growing Conditions
The cultivation of microalgae, such as Spirulina, relies on three main factors: temperature,
light, and pH. Microalgae are particularly sensitive to sudden changes in these conditions.
Additionally, other factors, such as the agitation of the medium, should be considered to ensure
optimal growth.
3.9.1 Light
Light is an important factor, but direct exposure to sunlight is not recommended. Preferably, it
is recommended to expose the crop to 30% sunlight except that a larger amount may be needed
to quickly warm the crop in the morning. Spirulina grows only in light, but 24-hour lighting is
not recommended either. During dark periods, Spirulina undergoes essential chemical
processes, such as protein synthesis and respiration. High light intensity without proper
agitation can cause photolysis, while high light intensity combined with strong agitation
promotes optimal growth (Fox, 1999).
3.9.2 Temperature
Temperature is the parameter that controls the speed of reactions. This tends to rise sharply in
the greenhouse or in full sunlight, creating problems of evaporation from the culture medium.
The optimum temperature for spirulina growth is in the 35-38°C range, while the minimum is
15-20°C (Fox, 1999).
3.9.3 pH
The ideal pH range for Spirulina cultivation is between 8.5 and 10.5 (Jourdan et al., 1999).
Spirulina naturally tends to alkalize its environment. Dissolved CO₂ in water, when utilized by
Spirulina, releases carbonate ions (CO3²⁻), which through hydrolysis, release OH⁻ ions
(Danesi, E.D.G, Rangel-Yagui C.O, Carvalho J.C.M. And Sato S, 2004).
3.10 Growing Technique
The Spirulina cultivation process involves several essential steps, as outlined below:
LITTERATURE REVIEW
28
medium in the south region of the country, precisely the area of Tamanrasset, but though the
Spirulina produced locally does not meet the needs for the consumers (Adiba et al., 2014).
3.9 Growing Conditions
The cultivation of microalgae, such as Spirulina, relies on three main factors: temperature,
light, and pH. Microalgae are particularly sensitive to sudden changes in these conditions.
Additionally, other factors, such as the agitation of the medium, should be considered to ensure
optimal growth.
3.9.1 Light
Light is an important factor, but direct exposure to sunlight is not recommended. Preferably, it
is recommended to expose the crop to 30% sunlight except that a larger amount may be needed
to quickly warm the crop in the morning. Spirulina grows only in light, but 24-hour lighting is
not recommended either. During dark periods, Spirulina undergoes essential chemical
processes, such as protein synthesis and respiration. High light intensity without proper
agitation can cause photolysis, while high light intensity combined with strong agitation
promotes optimal growth (Fox, 1999).
3.9.2 Temperature
Temperature is the parameter that controls the speed of reactions. This tends to rise sharply in
the greenhouse or in full sunlight, creating problems of evaporation from the culture medium.
The optimum temperature for spirulina growth is in the 35-38°C range, while the minimum is
15-20°C (Fox, 1999).
3.9.3 pH
The ideal pH range for Spirulina cultivation is between 8.5 and 10.5 (Jourdan et al., 1999).
Spirulina naturally tends to alkalize its environment. Dissolved CO₂ in water, when utilized by
Spirulina, releases carbonate ions (CO3²⁻), which through hydrolysis, release OH⁻ ions
(Danesi, E.D.G, Rangel-Yagui C.O, Carvalho J.C.M. And Sato S, 2004).
3.10 Growing Technique
The Spirulina cultivation process involves several essential steps, as outlined below: