Progress in rhizopus taxonomy and production of l-lactic acid

Abstract

Rhizopus is one of the most exploited of fungal genera, and valuable for biotechnological applications, especially L-lactic acid production. This article reviews recent research on Rhizopus taxonomy, classification, and the biotechnological processes for L-lactic acid production. Roles of key bioprocess parameters including strain, inoculum type, nutrient composition, and physical factors involved in the production of L-lactic acid are discussed. Development of fermentation processes for L-lactic acid production by Rhizopus spp. are also described.