Isolation and lipid production of thraustochytrids from fishing village in Tangkolak Indonesia

Abstract

This research explores thraustochytrids, microorganisms with promising applications in sustainable docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and odd-chain fatty acid production. The study specifically focuses on thraustochytrids isolated from a fishing village in the northern coastal area of Java, Indonesia, known for its significant organic content. Eight isolates were obtained from this coastal environment, demonstrating robust growth and lipid production capabilities. Notably, isolate BML-38 exhibited superior biomass and lipid production compared to commercial thraustochytrid ATCC strains, particularly in crude glycerol-based media. This positions it as a strong candidate for sustainable and cost-effective lipid production. BML-38 also produced a higher concentration of pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) and a similar concentration of heptadecanoic acid (C17:0), in addition to DHA. The outcomes of this investigation open new avenues, as thraustochytrids from the coastal area exhibit the capacity to utilize waste materials while competitively producing valuable compounds such as odd-chain fatty acids and DHA. This dual capability positions these strains as noteworthy contributors to sustainable lipid production and waste remediation strategies.