A multi-step method for producing an algae product comprising, a microorganism consumption step, another step, and an algae product collection step. The microorganism consumption step comprises, combining a liquid growth medium comprising microorganisms with a phagotrophic algae capable of producing a desired algae product, consuming said microorganisms by said phagotrophic algae, and growing said phagotrophic algae. Another step comprises either a microorganism growth step or a photosynthetic algal growth step. A microorganism growth step comprises providing a liquid growth medium comprising nutrients and microorganisms capable of said consuming said nutrients, consuming said nutrients by said microorganisms, and growing said microorganisms. A photosynthetic algal growth step comprises providing a substantially organic nutrient depleted liquid medium, providing a microorganism population comprising said phagotrophic algae, photosynthetic growth of said phagotrophic algae. An algae product collection step comprises collecting a desired algae product from said phagotrophic algae.
