Optimization of heterotrophic cultivation of Chlorella sp. for oil production

► A novel microalga Chlorella sp. LAM-H had a great potential to product lipid. ► Central composite design was used to optimize cultivation factors for bio-oil. ► The interactions between temperature and medium components were investigated. ► The model was found to be excellent in predicting the lipid productivity. ► The lipid productivity reached 247.16 mg l−1 d−1, higher than other reports.