ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author aims to write an exhaustive review, but have attempted to illustrate, by specific examples, some of the methods that have been used to define, describe, and analyze continuous culture systems. He focuses on chemostat culture, because it is by far the most commonly employed method of continuous culture. Several investigators have modeled the behavior of more than one species growing in continuous culture. Quite often it is convenient to write linearized differential equations in matrix form, particularly when more than two variables are involved, and determine eigenvalues from the associated determinant. The Monod theory has been extended to include circumstances where more than one required nutrient is present at limiting concentrations. The analysis of wall growth described above shows that continuous culture dynamics may be significantly affected by biomass adhering to solid surfaces, and that in some circumstance microbial adhesion may be advantageous.
