Production and Optimization of Biosurfactant Properties Using Candida mogii and Licuri Oil (Syagrus coronata)

Optimizing biosurfactant (BS) production is key for sustainable industrial applications. This study investigated BS synthesis by <i>Candida mogii</i> using licuri oil, a renewable carbon source rich in medium-chain fatty acids. Process optimization was conducted via central composite design (CCD), adjusting concentrations of licuri oil, glucose, NH₄NO₃, and yeast extract. The predictive model achieved an R² of 0.9451 and adjusted R² of 0.8812. Under optimized conditions, <i>C. mogii</i> lowered water surface tension from 71.04 mN·m^-1 to 28.66 mN·m^-1, with a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 0.8 g·L^-1. The biosurfactant displayed high emulsification indices, exceeding 70% for canola, licuri, and motor oils, suggesting strong potential as an industrial emulsifier. FTIR and NMR analyses confirmed its glycolipid structure. Bioassays showed no toxicity to <i>Lactuca sativa</i> seeds, ensuring environmental safety, while antimicrobial tests demonstrated efficacy against <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> and <i>Escherichia coli</i>, indicating its suitability as a biocidal agent. This work positions <i>C. mogii</i> BS from licuri oil as a promising alternative for bioremediation, biotechnology, and antimicrobial uses.