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Seaweeds: An Ocean of Opportunity
Rashmi Pandey and Mona Kejriwal
R.D. & S.H. National College of Arts and Commerce and S.W.A. College of Science,
Off Linking Road, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Abstract Introduction
Seaweeds belongs to Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta and
Rhodophyta which are marine macroalgae growing
in shallow sea. The work deals with figuring out
scope, cultivation, industry, marketing schemes by
various organization. During our survey it was
revealed that the awareness is required about
seaweed and their scope. In the review various
opportunity and schemes are discussed about
seaweeds.
Keywords: Seaweeds, Seaweed applications,
Seaweeds Awareness, Survey.
Seaweeds are naturally occurring autotrophic
algae of the ocean. These macrophytic group of
algae are found mainly in the intertidal and
shallow zone of the sea. The marine macroalgae
are classified as Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta and
Rhodophyta. They contain accessory
photosynthetic pigments imparting colour.
Usually marine macroalgae (seaweeds) are found
attached to any substratum by means of holdfast,
may be found floating. They being the primary
producers of the ocean, are highly valuable for a
continuous supply of trapped energy in the form
of organic matter for higher organisms. From
ancient times seaweeds have been valued for
several of their uses by human beings.
Domestication and cultivation of seaweeds
started during the early 1940. The current review
explores the opportunities hiding in the oceans
and it also tries to find the gaps and limitations.
Seaweed Applications
Seaweed Applications: The advances in
technology has improved the seaweed utilization
over the period of time. Some important and
sustainable applications of seaweeds are
discussed here to give an insights to what holds
within these colorful entities of the ocean.
Human Food: Wakame, Kombu and hiziki ,
Undaria sp., Laminaria sp.and Hizikia fusiforme
respectively,consumed traditionally from ages in
China and Japan. Agar-agar from red algae
Gelidium is widely used gelling agent.
Animal Feed: The commonly used seaweeds for
animal feed are Green seaweed like Caulerpa
lentifera, Ulva compressia, red seaweed like
Chondrus crispus, brown seaweed like Laminaria
and Sargassum fusiforme.
Plants: The red algae Lawrensia obtuse, Jania
rubens, brown algae like Sargassum witea,
Dictyota dichotoma are the seaweeds used as
biofertilizers.
Environment: Ulva is used as bioindicator of
pollution and also behaving as a storage for metal
pollutants.
Discussion
Results of Survey
Conclusion
The review indicated the importance and economic value of seaweeds. A survey was conducted though online
means to assess the awareness among the general masses about seaweed and their products. The
participation was voluntary. Simple questions regarding the seaweeds were asked in form of a questionnaire
and answers were analysed using graphs and charts. It could be seen through survey that seaweeds are yet to
gain popularity and acceptance among masses. A simple day to day ingredient like agar is a product of
seaweed (Gelidium sp.) used as gelling agent in vegetarian cuisines goes unnoticed. There is still a gap
between the opportunities in seaweeds and their actual implementations. The limitations and challenges in
this field should be assessed and resolved for generating and flourishing opportunities.
References
Seaweeds have been reported to have various importance and uses for the purpose of human
development. Since India has a large population residing and being dependent on its ocean,
seaweed industry has very high potential for employment generation. Post covid being independent
in raw material requirement becomes almost mandatory. Seaweeds has been used successfully in
various countries for the purpose like food, fodder, bio-fuel and many more. There are various
companies which are already in business of seaweed products. There are various schemes and
opportunity to encourage seaweed utilization and cultivation. Government of India supports
seaweed cultivation program. Under these schemes, a special focus will be laid on employment
generation activities such as seaweed and ornamental fish cultivation.
Think progressive growth, think seaweed.
India with its vast shore line of approximately 7000
km and being one among the mega biodiversity
nation needs to upscale its standing as a seaweed
producer. With total 844 seaweed species reported
from its shoreline viz. 434,193 and 217 of red,
brown and green seaweeds respectively has a
greater chance of being a world seaweed producer.
The government of India under various schemes
are promoting seaweed cultivation, industry and
marketing. Some of the challenges and difficulties
analysed are as follows:
Lack of awareness
Unacceptability among masses
Seasonal fluctuation
High labor cost
Low Technological advances
Insufficient infrastructure
Unawareness of market trends
Some of the important schemes and the authorities working are as
follows :
National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) -
https://nfdb.gov.in/
Central Salt Marine and Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI)-
https://www.csmcri.res.in/
Pradhan Mantri Matya Sampada Yojana-
http://dof.gov.in/pmmsy
National Skill Development Agency (NSDA)-
https://www.nsda.gov.in/nsqf.html
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