
- Seaweed is the common collective name for Marine Plants.
- They range in size from single cell organisms that float in water to 45mt long plants.
- Over 122,000 different Species and Sub-Species throughout the world. Over 500 different species on Ireland's coastline.
- Typically consists of a holdfast (root like structure), stipe (stem) and fronds (leaves).
- Unlike land plants the holdfast does not feed the seaweed plant, it simply holds it in position.
- Seaweeds absorb nutrients through their fronds from the surrounding waters.
- Three major classifications, Brown, Green and Red.
- Seaweeds species are specific to regions and oceans.
- Wide variety of uses for seaweeds within the global industry, estimated to be worth in excess of $6 billion.
Food and human health
- Edible sea vegetables and health foods
- Animal feed additives
- Algotherapy, skin care and cosmetics
Extracts and compounds
- Hydrocolloids (agars, alginates, carrageenans)
- Nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products
- Anti cancer, anti viral and anti bacterial compounds
- Speciality fertilizers (nutrients and bioactive compounds)
Water treatment, bioremediation, bio fuels, and feed
- Bio-methane production
- Water treatment (tertiary treatment and heavy metal removal)
- Integrated aquaculture systems
- Feed for macroalgivores