| Abstract | This study evaluated the composition, digestibility [dry matter digestibility (DMD)], CH4 abatement
potential, and fatty acid biohydrogenation of six species of microalgae. Lipid content ranged from 115 g kg−1
dry matter (DM) (Scenedesmus sp. AMDD) to 361 g kg−1 DM (Tetracystis sp.), while Scenedesmus sp. AMDD had the
highest carbohydrate (364 g kg−1 DM) and fibre content (277 g kg−1 DM). Gas production was highest (P < 0.001)
for Micractinium reisseri and Chlorella vulgaris. In vitro DMD ranged from 654 g kg−1 for Scenedesmus sp. AMDD to
797 g kg−1 for Nannochloris bacillaris. Total CH4 differed (P < 0.001) among microalgae, ranging from 1.76 mL g−1
DM for Tetracystis sp. to 4.07 mL g−1 DM for M. reisseri. Nannochloropsis granulata (marine) had higher myristic, palmitoleic,
and eicosapentaenoic acid levels than freshwater microalgae. Levels of α-linolenic acid were higher in
Scenedesmus sp. AMDD than all other microalgae. CH4 production negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with levels of
total carbohydrate, oleic, and α-linolenic acid. Despite having a lower lipid content, CH4 reductions with
Scenedesmus sp. AMDD were comparable to Tetracystis sp. and N. bacillaris. Reductions in CH4 with Tetracystis sp.
and N. bacillaris occurred without a decline in DMD, suggesting that overall microbial activity was not inhibited. |
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