Media optimization for the production of β-carotene by Blakeslea trispora: A statistical approach

Blakeslea trispora (+) MTCC, Blakeslea trispora NRRL 2895 (+), Blakeslea trispora NRRL 2896 (−) as well as intraspecific mating of both the strain types have been studied for optimum production of β-carotene. Intraspecific mating of both the strain types increased the yield of β-carotene to a considerable level (98 ± 2 mg/l) as compared to wild strains. Effect of different media components such as carbon, nitrogen, and sulphates, and that of process variables such as pH and inoculum size on β-carotene production by Blakeslea trispora in shake flask culture was investigated. One factor at-a-time method was employed for the optimization of media components. Response surface methodology (RSM) was further used to determine the optimum values of process variables for maximum β-carotene production. The fit of the quadratic model was found to be significant. A significant increase in β-carotene production (139 ± 1 mg/l) was achieved using RSM.