Algae, considered as a biological substance, refers collectively to the biomass or biogenic material derived from photosynthetic, typically aquatic, non-vascular organisms encompassing microalgae (e.g., chlorophytes, diatoms, cyanobacteria in some usages) and macroalgae (seaweeds). This substance is characterized by high concentrations of pigments (such as chlorophylls, carotenoids, and phycobiliproteins), variable macromolecular composition (proteins, polysaccharides, lipids), and often substantial contents of structural or storage polysaccharides (e.g., starch, alginates, carrageenans). Algal biomass is studied as a feedstock for biorefinery applications, including biofuels, bioplastics, nutraceuticals, and as a source of specialized metabolites with defined biochemical and physicochemical properties.
The next time you breathe, consider this: Photosynthesis of algae, powered by iron dust in the ocean, made it possible.
Environment
Aug 14, 2025
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At a beach near Algiers, brown algae native to the Pacific Ocean cover the golden sand, posing a threat to ecosystems native to the area and their stench repelling swimmers at the peak of summer.
Ecology
Aug 4, 2025
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33
As global energy use continues to rise, the demand for renewable energy sources such as biofuels is also growing—especially in the transportation sector. Now, researchers at The University of Texas at El Paso have demonstrated ...
Bio & Medicine
Jul 24, 2025
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Skoltech researchers and their colleagues have uncovered an intricate light manipulation mechanism likely used by microscopic algae to boost photosynthesis.
Cell & Microbiology
Jul 23, 2025
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76
The time it takes to grow new skin for burns victims could be improved thanks to a new method of cell cultivation using algae, developed by University of Queensland researchers.
Cell & Microbiology
Jul 10, 2025
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30
A very special look was presented earlier this week by fashion designer Iris van Herpen at the Paris Haute Couture Week. The garment: a bioluminescent dress, created from 125 million living algae. Biodesigner Chris Bellamy ...
Ecology
Jul 9, 2025
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196
Photosystem II (PSII) is the only biological machine capable of splitting water into oxygen using sunlight. It plays a fundamental role in global oxygen production and solar energy conversion. However, PSII is highly prone ...
Plants & Animals
Jul 8, 2025
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34
Rising rural populations, drought and climate change are making water scarcity a problem in country townships—with more efficient handling of sewage system wastewater part of the solution.
Earth Sciences
Jul 4, 2025
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If humans are ever going to live beyond Earth, they'll need to construct habitats. But transporting enough industrial material to create livable spaces would be incredibly challenging and expensive. Researchers at the Harvard ...
Space Exploration
Jul 2, 2025
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60
Do dishes made of algae or insects have a chance of finding a place on our tables as alternative protein food (APF) choices? Why are some consumers open to this change, while others remain cautious? An international group ...
Other
Jun 30, 2025
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