The underexplored potential of green macroalgae in aquaculture

Green macroalgae (Chlorophyta) currently represent a residual fraction (<1%) of global seaweed biomass production landings. In turn, red (Rhodophyta) and brown (Ochrophyta) macroalgae dominate the remaining percentage of aquaculture production, exceeding 32 million tonnes per annum. However, the industry relies on a relatively low number of species, in which as few as seven macroalgal genera collectively represent the bulk of global production metrics. At present, innovation and increased sustainability of the industry calls for diversification of macroalgal species/strains in aquaculture to counteract potential adverse effects ensuing from genetic impoverishment, decreased resilience to disease and climate change. Despite the dominance of red and brown seaweed regarding production figures, aquaculture of green macroalgae has witnessed an increasing trend in productivity and diversification over the last decades, particularly in Asia, where green seaweed taxa often occupy specific market niches in the food sector. Furthermore, growing interest in green seaweeds in aquaculture has been highlighted for different applications in emerging western markets (eg IMTA, biorefineries, food delicacies), owing to a unique diversity of cytomorphologies, ecophysiological traits, propagation capacities and bioactive compounds featured by this group of macroalgae. Cultivation technologies are relatively well developed, but sustainability assessments are scarce and required to unlock the potential of green seaweeds. Although it is likely that green macroalgae will remain occupying specialised market niches, in which high-value products are favoured, we argue that aquaculture of chlorophytan taxa presents itself as a compelling option under the current quest for commercial diversification of products and expansion of the sector.

Automated summary

Green macroalgae currently represent a small fraction of global seaweed production, with red and brown macroalgae dominating the aquaculture industry. However, there is a growing trend in the cultivation and diversification of green macroalgae, particularly in Asia. Interest in green seaweeds in aquaculture is increasing in emerging western markets due to their unique characteristics and potential applications.