Maximizing Biomass Production and Carotenoid-like Pigments Yield in As04 Through Culture Optimization.

The global chemical pigment industry faces environmental challenges despite its economic importance. This study investigates the potential of AS04, an airborne isolate, for sustainable pigment and biomass production. Microbial kinetics were evaluated under Taguchi design conditions with temperature (30, 34, and 38 °C), stirring speed (110, 120, and 130), and pH (6.0, 6.5, and 7.0), measuring biomass through dry weight and viable cells, pigment production, and identification of its pigment using UPLC-MS/MS; structural and chemical characterization of biomass was conducted using SEM and FTIR. Among the tested conditions, the treatment at 30 °C, 130 rpm, and pH 6.5 resulted in the highest CFU count (5.7 × 10 CFU mL) and the greatest biomass yield (13.3 g L). In contrast, the highest pigment yield (0.0016 mg g) was obtained at 38 °C, 130 rpm, and pH 6.0. Cell extracts identified key carotenoid compounds such as β-cryptoxanthin, Rhodovibrin, and other precursors. These findings highlight the potential of AS04 as a sustainable source of pigments and valuable bioproducts, offering promising alternatives for eco-friendly industrial applications.