Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize culture conditions for the growth of Candida utilis with bamboo wastewater. A significant influence of initial pH, fermentation time and yeast extract on biomass of C utilis was evaluated by Plackett-Burman design (PBD). These factors were further optimized using a central composite design (CCD) and RSM. A combination of initial pH 6.1, fermentation time 69 h and yeast extract 1.17 g/L was optimum for maximum biomass of C. utilis. A 1.7-fold enhancement of biomass of C utilis was gained after optimization in shake-flask cultivation. The biomass of C. utilis reached 19.17 g/L in 3 L fermentor. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.