Marine Algae
Algae are almost ubiquitous, between microscopic and macroscopic species, and can be found in either fresh water or in oceans. Marine macroalgae, commonly known as seaweed, are plant-like organisms that can be seen by the naked eye and come in many varieties ranging from a few millimetres or centimetres in size, while the largest grow to a length of 30 to 50 meters[1].
Botanically, macroalgae are classified as green, brown, or red and is estimated to be at least 30,000 known species of macroalgae found in the marine environment[2].
Given that all the substances that seaweeds need in order to survive are dissolved in the water, macroalgae, unlike plants, have no need of roots, stems, or real leaves. Nutrients and gases are exchanged directly across the surface of the seaweed by diffusion and active transport.
Marine algae draw from the sea a wealth of mineral elements.
Marine algae is used as a natural source of DHA & EPA:
- DHA supports cognitive function, brain and pregnancy health
- DHA & EPA supports heart health and nervous system function
Resources:
1. American Scientist, accessed 14 Dec 2020, The Science of Seaweed 2. Sustainable Energy Ireland, accessed 14 Dec 2020, A review of the Potential of Marine Algae as a Source of Biofuel in Ireland (2009)
Algae are almost ubiquitous, between microscopic and macroscopic species, and can be found in either fresh water or in oceans. Marine macroalgae, commonly known as seaweed, are plant-like organisms that can be seen by the naked eye and come in many varieties ranging from a few millimetres or centimetres in size, while the largest grow to a length of 30 to 50 meters[1].
Botanically, macroalgae are classified as green, brown, or red and is estimated to be at least 30,000 known species of macroalgae found in the marine environment[2].
Given that all the substances that seaweeds need in order to survive are dissolved in the water, macroalgae, unlike plants, have no need of roots, stems, or real leaves. Nutrients and gases are exchanged directly across the surface of the seaweed by diffusion and active transport.
Marine algae draw from the sea a wealth of mineral elements.
Marine algae is used as a natural source of DHA & EPA:
- DHA supports cognitive function, brain and pregnancy health
- DHA & EPA supports heart health and nervous system function
Resources:
1. American Scientist, accessed 14 Dec 2020, The Science of Seaweed 2. Sustainable Energy Ireland, accessed 14 Dec 2020, A review of the Potential of Marine Algae as a Source of Biofuel in Ireland (2009)
