Growing Spirulina in lab conditions often leads to it losing its classic spiral shape and becoming linear. This shift is usually due to factors like constant temperature, stable light, and artificial nutrients, which don’t mimic the dynamic natural environments where spirals help with movement and light capture.
Despite the shape change, linear Spirulina is still genetically the same species and is acceptable for cultivation, especially for food or supplement production. The spiral shape is more cosmetic than essential.
You can learn more here: SAG 257.80 page SAG 257.80 Arthrospira platensis
(PDF document copy)
and here:
Relationship Between Harvesting Efficiency and Filament Morphology in Arthrospira platensis Gomont – US NIH, National Library of Science. (PDF document copy – see document “Introduction” section)
Are you thinking about growing it yourself? Check our live Spirulina culturing kit.
