Selected aspects related to macroalgae aquacultures on the example of Neopyropia (Porphyra)

Abstract

For thousands of years algae have been used for food and agricultural purposes in Asian countries. In recent years they have become increasingly popular in aquaculture, especially in the integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA), in which they process waste produced by fish, rich in, among others, into ammonia, phosphates and carbon, while producing new biomass. Products containing algae are characterized by a high content of protein, vitamins and minerals and are more often chosen by consumers, e.g. due to the trend towards healthy eating. Commercially grown species of the genus Neopyropia (syn. Porphyra, nori) are a valuable source of nutrients and can contribute to meeting the growing nutritional needs in the world. The article summarizes the latest literature on the use of Neopyropia macroalgae in aquaculture and food industry. Attention was also paid to the potential dangers resulting from contamination of algae products, mainly with heavy metals.