Controlling Aspergillus niger morphology in a low shear-force environment in a rocking-motion bioreactor

The filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger is an important production host in biotechnology. Shear force regimes are one of the key factors that affect macromorphology and product yield. While morphology changes under intensive agitation have been widely investigated, studies at a low shear regime independently from oxygen limitation has remained challenge. Therefore, this study, 2-dimensional rocking-motion bioreactor used as alternative platform for studying regime, but sufficient supply dissolved oxygen. Talcum macroparticles were added different concentrations to control development certain macromorphology. Results showed 0.25% 1% (ww−1) talcum led mixture dispersed mycelia loose clumps, similar what obtained lab-scale stirred tank reactors. At lower concentrations, distinct pellet formation was observed. Quantitative analysis pellets with 0.05% talcum, 95% had diameter smaller than 850 µm after 36 h. In case 0.1% 94% ( ± 5.0%) below 650 µm.The presented approach makes it possible achieve as, example, observed large scale cultivations study consequences synthesis.