Good question!

There are a lot of algae out there, and each have different characteristics.

I chose Spirulina for the following qualities:

  1. Growing conditions are less susceptible to contamination
  2. Widely available
  3. Low risk of accidental release
  4. Might be able to eat some.

In terms of making oil it is not optimal. But the original objective has a learning curve that matches Spirulina.

Other options:

  1. Chlorella