P. tricornutum was grown in batch cultures under 21ºC temperature and continuous irradiance of 183 µE.m-2 . s-1, provided by fluorescent light tubes. Cultures growth were followed by cell countings, "in vivo" fluorescence and cellular protein, carbohydrate and chlorophyll-α content. The maximum value of protein/carbohydrate ratio was found at the exponential phase and the minimum value at the stationary phase. This ratio characterizes the physiological stage of the culture. Cell uptake rates for nitrate, ammonium and phosphate from the media were higher during the lag-phase. Nitrite excretion by the cells were detected following nitrate uptake.
Phaeodactylum tricornutum; Algae culture; Chlorophylls; Proteins; Nutrients (mineral); Carbohydrates