Effects of fluctuating temperature and silicate supply on the growth, biochemical composition and lipid accumulation of Nitzschia sp.

Nitzschia sp. (Bacillariophyceae) was grown under temperature and photoperiods mimicking those, typical during summer, spring/fall and winter conditions in the southern United States, and using five silicate (Si) concentrations. In general, higher Si concentrations resulted in higher growth rates in summer and spring/fall conditions and lower organic content.