Mathematical modelling of growth and substrate conversion of Zymomonas mobilis at 30 and 35°C

Zymomonas mobilis was grown in continuous cultures at 30 and 35 degrees C. The specific substrate consumption rates at 35 degrees C were higher than those at 30 degrees C. An unstructured mathematical model based on the linear equation for substrate consumption provided a statistically adequate description for cultures grown at 35 degrees C but not for cultures grown at 30 degrees C. A structured two-compartment model described growth and substrate consumption well at both temperatures. Some theoretical and practical aspects of the two-compartment model are discussed.