Seaweeds

Seaweed Latest News

Seaweed farming is gaining global recognition as a sustainable and profitable industry.

Why in the News?

• The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aims to boost India's seaweed production to 1.12 million tonnes over five years.
• The $5.6 billion global seaweed industry is expanding rapidly, with India's contribution increasing steadily.

What is Seaweed?

• Seaweed is a marine plant that grows in oceans and seas.
• It is nutrient-dense, containing 54 trace elements, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
• It helps combat cancer, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and high blood pressure while also boosting immunity.
• Unlike traditional crops, seaweed does not require land, freshwater, fertilizers, or pesticides, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural resource.
• Microscopic seaweeds, such as phytoplankton, form the foundation of marine food chains and play a key role in oceanic primary productivity.
• Large seaweeds, like giant kelp, create dense underwater forests that serve as biodiversity hotspots, offering shelter and food to a variety of species.
• Seaweeds contribute to oxygen generation and carbon sequestration, playing a significant role in climate regulation.

Seaweed FAQs

Q1. What is seaweed?
Ans. Seaweed is a marine algae found in oceans, classified into three types: red, green, and brown algae, and is used in food, medicine, and biofuel.

Q2. Why is seaweed cultivation important?
Ans. Seaweed absorbs carbon dioxide, improves marine biodiversity, and is a sustainable resource for industries like food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Q3. What are the economic benefits of seaweed farming?
Ans. It provides livelihood opportunities, is used in fertilizers, animal feed, and biofuels, and boosts marine-based economies.

Q4. How does seaweed help in climate change mitigation?
Ans. Seaweed captures CO₂, reduces ocean acidification, and can be used in carbon sequestration projects to combat global warming.

Source: PIB