-BEA-

Group(s) of biological resources stored in the collection: cyanobacteria, eukaryotic algae (microalgae and macroalgae)

The BEA holds a total of 2,188 clonal strains. Most belong to Chlorophyta and Cyanobacteria (39 % each), followed by Heterokonta (6 %) and Dinoflagellata (5 %). The remaining 11 % corresponds to other minor phyla.

• Sale of microalgae and cyanobacteria strains from the public catalogue

• Supply of cultures in various volumes

• Supply of sterile, ready-to-use culture media

• Public, private, and patent strain deposit (as an International Depositary Authority under the Budapest Treaty)

• Bioprospecting and environmental sampling

• Isolation of clonal xénic/axenic algal and cyanobacterial strains

• Genetic identification barcoding (16S/18S rRNA sequencing)

• Genomic DNA extraction

• Biomass extract production and supply (for R&D applications)

• Biochemical analysis of biomass samples

• Flow cytometry with sorting analysis

• Technical consulting

• Training workshops on microalgae preservaion and biotechnology

BEA focuses on the preservation and biotechnological valorisation of microalgal and cyanobacterial strains. Its research is centered on cultivation and processing techniques that transform algal biomass into high-value products such as bioactive compounds, biostimulants, and biopesticides and contribute to bioremediation processes. These efforts are aligned with circular economy principles, particularly through biorefinery and bioremediation strategies that enable the reuse of waste and the conversion of biomass into valuable resources.

In addition to the Culture Collection, the BEA hosts a dedicated experimental platform that includes photobioreactors, harvesting and biomass processing equipment, automated cultivation chambers, and a fully equipped chemistry lab. These facilities support detailed strain characterisation and the optimisation of cultivation processes for industrial and commercial applications.

BEA is actively involved in a wide range of national and international R&D initiatives. Some examples of current projects include:

- PHAROS (Horizon Europe): a ‘lighthouse’ project for the Atlantic and Arctic basins.

- CALYPSO (Interreg MAC): bioremediation of industrial and agricultural waste using algae.

- CRECENAZUL: advancing blue biotechnology and sustainable aquaculture.

- SEAWHEAT (COST Action): developing Ulva as a model species for innovative mariculture.

- MARINNONET: building a transnational network for blue biotech innovation in the Atlantic area.

As a member of MIRRI and EMBRC, BEA collaborates in international scientific networks and promotes access to advanced marine biotechnology infrastructure. It actively supports innovation in marine biotechnology, sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, renewable energy, and the circular bioeconomy.

BEA is implementing a formal quality management system for the deposit, sale, and distribution of microalgae and cyanobacteria. The collection is currently working towards ISO 9001:2015 certification and is awaiting the external audit.