Abstract

This study optimized the production of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by Aplanochytriumsp. The microbe was cultured under different conditions, which were optimized by using the central composite design model of the response surface methodology (RSM). The interaction and individual effects of important factors for DHA production byAplanochytrium sp., was analysed. DHA production was attained at the maximum of 29.42% of total fatty acids under culture medium consisting of  maida powder (6.32 mg.l^-1), yeast powder (8.35 mg.l^-1), vitamin B (12.08 mg.l^-1) and vitamin C (10.08 mg.l^-1) and at optimal culture conditions of pH 7.04, salinity (34.05 ppt) and temperature (30°C).  The present study proved that Aplanochytrium sp. is promising to be a source of DHA for large scale production. 

Key words: Mangroves, Aplanochytrium sp., docosahexaenoic acid, process optimization, response surface methodology.