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The macromolecular composition of noncalcified marine macroalgae
Catherine Fiset1, Andrew J Irwin2,3, Zoe V Finkel1,4
1Environmental Science Program, Mount Allison University, 62 York Street, Sackville, New Brunswick, E4L 1E2, Canada.
Journal of Phycology
|August 17, 2019
Summary
Macroalgae are rich in carbohydrates and minerals, with median dry weight composition of 9.98% protein, 2.7% lipid, and 48.5% carbohydrate. This research provides key insights into marine macroalgae composition for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Phycology
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Macroalgae macromolecular composition is crucial for aquatic ecosystems and human applications.
- Understanding variations across phyla is essential for optimizing use.
- Previous data was fragmented, necessitating a comprehensive analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the average macromolecular composition (protein, lipid, carbohydrate, ash) of marine macroalgae.
- To compare macroalgae composition with microalgae and herbaceous plants.
- To identify compositional differences among macroalgal phyla.
Main Methods:
- Utilized literature data from 125 publications with 1,117 observations.
- Employed a hierarchical Bayesian statistical model for estimation.
- Focused on wild-grown, noncalcified marine macroalgae.
Main Results:
- Median macromolecular composition: 9.98% protein, 2.7% lipid, 48.5% carbohydrate, 31.8% ash (dry weight).
- Macroalgae are richer in carbohydrates and minerals than microalgae.
- Macroalgae are lower in protein and lipid compared to many herbaceous plants.
- Rhodophytes have less lipid and more protein; Ochrophytes have less protein than the average.
Conclusions:
- Macroalgae represent a valuable resource with distinct macromolecular profiles.
- Significant compositional differences exist between macroalgal phyla.
- Findings inform macroalgae utilization in food, aquaculture, and biofuel industries.
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