Optimizing LED spectral output for phytoplankton bioreactor

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Industrial Plankton Inc. is a Canadian bioreactor producer providing a turn-key solution for research, aquaculture, and biotechnology. Industrial Plankton's current bioreactor design uses fluorescent lights to provide the growing phytoplankton with light necessary for photosynthesis. An experiment to optimize the growth rate of phytoplankton using various lighting conditions will be conducted with the goal of determining an optimal lighting strategy for Industrial Plankton's commercial bioreactors. Specifically, this study will compare the biomass output using the existing fluorescent lighting system, and several LED based solutions. Light intensity and spectrum are two crucial factors influencing the growth rate of phytoplankton. In comparison to fluorescent lights, LEDs can emit light in very specific wavelengths that can be used to target the phytoplankton's specific photopigments. Switching out the fluorescent fixtures for a full LED system will allow for fine-tuned control and adjustment of both intensity and spectrum of light. Industrial Plankton, in partnership with Dr. Varela's laboratory, in the Department of Biology and School of Earth and Ocean Sciences at the University of Victoria, will find an optimal blend of LEDs that allows for the most efficient growth of phytoplankton.