microalgae appear to be the only
source of biodiesel that has the potential to completely
displace fossil diesel. Unlike other oil crops, microalgae
grow extremely rapidly and many are exceedingly rich in
oil. Microalgae commonly double their biomass within
24 h. Biomass doubling times during exponential growth
are commonly as short as 3.5 h. Oil content in microalgae
can exceed 80% by weight of dry biomass