This application note introduces an Arduino-based LED system useful for cultivation of various microalgae species as well as other plants. The system is based on RGB (APA102C) LEDs connected to an external Arduino microcontroller allowing flexibility via programming, modification, and upgrades. We describe in detail the C functions that produce white light and mixed colors in LED strips as well as the ability to generate intermittent/flashing/pulsing light. The capabilities of the system Offer unique applications in industry and research. Our aim is to provide a low-cost and open-source tool in order to improve and promote cultivation of photoautotroph species (bacteria, microalgae or plants) using LEDs. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.