Response surface methodology for optimization of growth parameters for the production of carotenoids by a mutant strain of Rhodotorula gracilis.

Response surface methodology of growth parameters for carotenoid synthesis by a mutant strain of Rhodotorula gracilis (CFR 0-1) was performed by a fractional factorial design involving 5 variables: 4-8% glucose; 6-12 days incubation; inoculum vol. 6-12 ml/100 ml; pH 4.5-7.7; and temp. 24-32'b0C. The response equation developed indicated a linear relationship between period of incubation, temp., sugar concn. and vol. of inoculum for carotenoid production. Results indicated max. carotenogenesis (0.09%) at 8% glucose level, pH 7.5 and 6.0 ml/100 ml of inoculum for an incubation period of 12 days at 24'b0C. These theoretical values were verified by experimental data.