Pavlova lutheri

Pavlova lutheri is a species of unicellular haptophyte microalgae that is widely utilized in the aquaculture industry. While it is not a plant pathogen, maintaining the health of Pavlova lutheri cultures is essential for the survival of larval stages of various marine organisms, making it a critical subject in specialized aquaculture agronomy.

The biological nature of this microalga requires a precise set of environmental conditions. It is known as an auxotroph, meaning it relies on specific vitamins, primarily cobalamin (B12) and thiamine, to thrive. Issues in the cultivation process, often mistaken for "diseases" of the culture, usually stem from nutrient exhaustion or bacterial contamination, which suppresses the healthy proliferation of the algal cells.

This organism is primarily cultivated to serve as high-quality live feed. It is rich in essential fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These nutrients are vital for the successful development and metamorphosis of shellfish and crustacean larvae, directly impacting the profitability of hatcheries.

The development and distribution of the culture depend on rigorous control of physicochemical parameters. Optimal growth occurs within a narrow temperature range (18–22°C) and requires constant photoperiod management. Failure to maintain these conditions results in the collapse of the culture, leading to the starvation of the dependent larval populations and significant production losses.

Protective measures and culture management protocols focus on preventing contamination and maintaining a monoculture:

• implementing strictly sterile conditions for inoculation;
• regular water quality monitoring and nutrient analysis;
• utilizing UV sterilization or membrane filtration for intake water;
• constant monitoring of cell density and vitality.