Nannochloropsis gaditana is a microalga with a high nutritional value and a protein and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content that makes it interesting as a feed in aquaculture. To maximize its productivity and nutritional value in large-scale culture, a well-known commercial medium was optimized to the most favorable nutrient level using commercial fertilizers. Optimal growth conditions were obtained in the alternative fertilizer-based medium at a nitrogen concentration of 11.3 mM, a phosphorus concentration of 0.16 mM, and a micronutrient concentration of 30 mu L L-1. This alternative medium allowed to obtain a biomass concentration similar to that achieved when using the commercial formula but with a reduction in Cu, Fe, and Mo content of 71%, 89%, and 99%, respectively. A maximum biomass productivity of 0.51 g L-1 d(-1) was obtained. The eicosapentaenoic acid and protein contents of the biomass were 2.84% and 44% of dry weight, respectively. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.