CONCLUSION
Monascus purpureus has produced highest pigment yields and biomass at 28°C - 30°C and this
temperature range was found to be optimum for growth and pigment production. Monascus
purpureus can survive on a wide range of pH (4.5-8.5). Maximum biomass was observed at
acidic pH (4.5) and around this range yellow-orange pigment was dominated. Maximum red
pigment has been observed at room temperature and at pH 5.5. Local unpolished rice and
Fagopyrum spp were established to be the best substrates for Monascus purpureus. Maximum
red pigment was observed when substrates were supplemented with N sources. There was no
increase in pigment yield when substrates were supplemented with C source. Presence of citrinin
was confirmed by LC-MS. There is not much information available on pigment production by
Monascus spp.. Hence there is a need to explore Monascus spp. to make it more adaptable and
acceptable to the food industry for its industrial production
examined by LC-MS.