Gutweed successfully grown in full life cycle within brackish conditions in Baltic Sea
Gutweed could become a future crop in the Baltic Sea. This is shown in a new study from the University of Gothenburg, where researchers have, for the first time, successfully cultivated the seaweed through its entire life ...
"This is an important step toward sustainable aquaculture in the Baltic Sea," says Sophie Steinhagen, researcher at the Department of Marine Sciences at the University of Gothenburg.
Interest in macroalgae cultivation is growing rapidly because seaweeds can be used for food, animal feed and biomaterials. However, many species currently cultivated require saltier waters than those found in the Baltic Sea. Gutweed (Ulva intestinalis) is different. It grows rapidly, tolerates large environmental variations and thrives in brackish water.
"Gutweed is one of the few seaweed species with real potential for cultivation under the unique conditions found in the Baltic Sea," says Steinhagen.
Gutweed gets its name from its hollow, often gas-filled fronds. The species is known for its mild, nutty flavor and is particularly popular when deep-fried, as it develops a taste reminiscent of white truffle.
Can be combined with offshore wind power
Seaweed farming could play an important role in future sustainable food systems. Macroalgae absorb nutrients directly from the water and could help reduce eutrophication in the Baltic Sea, while producing biomass without the need for agricultural land or freshwater.
Gutweed can be cultivated in the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea and could potentially be grown alongside offshore wind farms. Credit: Sophie Steinhagen
Gutweed gets its name from its hollow, often gas-filled fronds. The species is known for its mild, nutty flavor and is particularly popular when deep-fried, as it develops a taste reminiscent of white truffle. Credit: Sophie Steinhagen
Sophie Steinhagen and her colleagues at the Tjärnö Marine Laboratory have demonstrated that it is possible to cultivate intestinal algae—from reproduction in the laboratory to fully grown plants at sea. Credit: University of Gothenburg