The effect of growth phase on the recovery of the autoflocculating microalgae Ettlia texensis was studied. In the stationary phase, 90% recovery was achieved after 3 h settling. Scanning electron microscopic pictures revealed that extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) on the cell surface were involved in autoflocculation. During the stationary phase an increase of the protein fraction in the EPS was observed while the total fatty acids content increased. The autoflocculating properties of E. texensis combined with favourite fatty acid content and composition make this microalgae an excellent candidate for biodiesel production if harvested at the end of the stationary phase. (c) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.