Comparing EPA production and fatty acid profiles of three strains under western Norwegian climate conditions.

Microalgae could provide a sustainable alternative to fish oil as a source for the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). However, growing microalgae on a large-scale is still more cost-intensive than fish oil production, and outdoor productivities vary greatly with reactor type, geographic location, climate conditions and microalgae species or even strains. The diatom has been intensively investigated for its potential in large-scale production, due to its robustness and comparatively high growth rates and EPA content.