The impact of nitrogen starvation on the dynamics of triacylglycerol accumulation in nine microalgae strains

► The dynamics of triacylglycerol accumulation in nine microalgal strains were compared. ► When exposed to nitrogen starvation, four species accumulated over 35% (w/w) TAG. ► Simultaneous TAG accumulation and sustained biomass productivity was achieved. ► Very high volumetric productivities were achieved (over 300 mg TAG l−1 day−1). ► Scenedesmus obliquus and Chlorella zofingiensis are most promising for TAG production.