Microalgae or microphytes are a division of algal organisms encompassing diatoms, the green algae, and the golden algae. These microscopic organisms are incredibly efficient solar energy converters that perform photosynthe­sis and are capable of rapid growth in either freshwater or saline environ­ments. Although this value varies from species to species and depends upon cultivation conditions, roughly 50% of the weight of algae is lipid oil. Algae are typically cultivated in either open or closed ponds, photobioreactors, or hybrid systems of both. Once the algae have matured they are harvested and processed to extract the algae’s oil.