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🌿 Pavlova Lutheri

  • Dion Tomaras
  • May 9
  • 2 min read


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Pavlova lutheri, now taxonomically recognized as Diacronema lutheri, is a marine microalga of considerable importance in aquaculture and biotechnology. Renowned for its high nutritional value and lipid content, this species has been extensively studied and utilized in various applications.


🧬 Taxonomy and Classification

  • Current Name: Diacronema lutheri (formerly Pavlova lutheri)

  • Synonyms: Monochrysis lutheri, Pavlova lutheri

  • Family: Pavlovaceae

  • Class: Pavlovophyceae

  • Phylum: Haptophyta  


The species was initially described as Monochrysis lutheri by Droop in 1953. Subsequent studies led to its reclassification as Pavlova lutheri, and more recently, based on integrative taxonomy approaches, it has been placed in the genus Diacronema .


🔬 Morphology and Physiology

Diacronema lutheri is a unicellular, flagellated microalga characterized by:


  • Size: Approximately 3–6 µm in diameter

  • Color: Golden-brown due to the presence of fucoxanthin

  • Flagella: Two unequal flagella and a unique organelle called a haptonema

  • Cell Structure: Contains chloroplasts with chlorophylls a and c, and accessory pigments like fucoxanthin, contributing to its photosynthetic efficiency  


These features facilitate its mobility and adaptability in various marine environments.


🌱 Cultivation and Growth Conditions

D. lutheri thrives under specific culture conditions:


  • Temperature: Optimal growth between 11–26°C

  • Salinity: Tolerates a range of 8–32 ppt

  • Culture Media: Commonly cultivated in Guillard's f/2 medium

  • Photoperiod: Continuous illumination enhances growth and lipid accumulation 


Studies have shown that manipulating environmental factors like light intensity, salinity, and pH can significantly impact its biomass and lipid productivity .


🧪 Biochemical Composition

D. lutheri is notable for its rich biochemical profile:


  • Proteins: Approximately 52% of dry weight

  • Carbohydrates: Around 24%

  • Lipids: Approximately 29%, with a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)  SlideServeSpringerLink+1ResearchGate+1

It is particularly rich in essential fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), making it a valuable feed in aquaculture .


🧫 Applications in Aquaculture and Biotechnology

Aquaculture Feed


Due to its high nutritional content, D. lutheri is extensively used as a feed for:

  • Bivalve Larvae: Oysters, clams, and mussels

  • Crustaceans: Shrimp and other species

  • Fish Larvae: Providing essential nutrients during early developmental stages  

Its digestibility and nutrient profile enhance the survival and growth rates of these organisms.


Biofuel Production


The high lipid content of D. lutheri makes it a promising candidate for biodiesel production. Research indicates that optimizing culture conditions can lead to increased lipid yields, making it a sustainable option for bioenergy .


Biotechnological Research

D. lutheri serves as a model organism in studies related to:


  • Lipid Biosynthesis: Understanding the pathways and regulation of lipid production

  • Genetic Engineering: Development of transformation protocols for enhanced metabolite production 

  • Antioxidant Compounds: Exploration of its potential in producing bioactive compounds with health benefits


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🧬 Genomic Insights


The genome of D. lutheri has been sequenced, providing valuable information on its metabolic pathways and potential for genetic manipulation. This genomic data facilitates advanced research in algal biology and biotechnology .

🌍 Conclusion


Diacronema lutheri stands out as a microalga of significant importance due to its versatile applications in aquaculture, biofuel production, and scientific research. Its rich nutritional profile and adaptability to various culture conditions make it a valuable resource in sustainable practices and biotechnological advancements.

 
 
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