https://www.sb-roscoff.fr/en/2017/06/12/new-publication-furthering-knowledge-seaweed-growth-and-development

New Publication: Furthering knowledge on seaweed growth and development....

Introduction: 
This viewpoint paper describes to which extent basic research in macroalgal growth, development and reproduction can speed up and improve the current practices of seaweed aquaculture.
Content text: 

Abstract

Macroalgae (seaweeds) are the subject of increasing interest for their potential as a source of valuable, sustainable biomass in the food, feed, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Compared to microalgae, the pace of knowledge acquisition in seaweeds is slower despite the availability of whole-genome sequences and model organisms for the major seaweed groups. This is partly due to specific hurdles related to the large size of these organisms and their slow growth. As a result, this basic scientific field is falling behind, despite the societal and economic importance of these organisms. Here, we argue that sustainable management of seaweed aquaculture requires fundamental understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms controlling macroalgal life cycles - from the production of germ cells to the growth and fertility of the adult organisms - using diverse approaches requiring a broad range of technological tools. This viewpoint highlights several examples of basic research on macroalgal developmental biology that could enable the step-changes which are required to adequately meet the demands of the aquaculture sector.