ORCID Profile
0000-0002-9275-1535
Current Organisation
University of the Sunshine Coast
Does something not look right? The information on this page has been harvested from data sources that may not be up to date. We continue to work with information providers to improve coverage and quality. To report an issue, use the Feedback Form.
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Marine and Estuarine Ecology (incl. Marine Ichthyology) | Aquaculture | Genomics | Genetics
Climate Change Mitigation Strategies | Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences | Marine Flora, Fauna and Biodiversity |
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 05-05-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-03-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-12-2016
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-07-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2017.05.082
Abstract: In this study we test a novel approach to closing the anthropogenic nutrient cycle, by using the freshwater macroalga, Oedogonium intermedium, to recover dissolved nitrogen (N) and phosphorous (P) from municipal wastewater. We then convert this cultivated algae into two types of soil ameliorant compost and biochar. To produce compost, algae was combined with sugarcane bagasse and left to mature for 10 weeks, and to produce biochar, algae was processed through slow pyrolysis at 450 °C. The mature compost had a total N and P content of 2.5% and 0.6%, which was 2- to 4-times lower than the algal biochar, which had a total N and P content of 5.5% and 2.5% respectively. Composting stabilized the N and P recovered from wastewater, with 80% of the initial N and >99% of the initial P retained in the mature compost. In contrast, only 29% of the initial N and 62% of the initial P was retained in the biochar. When the mature compost was added to a low fertility soil it significantly increased the production of sweet corn (Zea mays). Treatments receiving 50 and 100% compost produced 4-9 times more corn biomass than when synthetic fertilizer alone was added to the low fertility soil. When biochar was applied in conjunction with compost there was an additional 15% increase in corn productivity, most likely due to the ability of the biochar to bind labile N and P and prevent its loss from the soil. This study demonstrates a unique model for recovering N and P from municipal wastewater and recycling these nutrients into the agricultural industry. This could be an ideal model for regional areas where agriculture and water treatment facilities are co-located and could ultimately reduce the reliance of agriculture on finite mineral sources of P.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 06-03-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2013.12.083
Abstract: Six species of marine and freshwater green macroalgae were cultivated in outdoor tanks and subsequently converted to biocrude through hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) in a batch reactor. The influence of the biochemical composition of biomass on biocrude yield and composition was assessed. The freshwater macroalgae Oedogonium afforded the highest biocrude yield of all six species at 26.2%, dry weight (dw). Derbesia (19.7%dw) produced the highest biocrude yield for the marine species followed by Ulva (18.7%dw). In contrast to significantly different yields across species, the biocrudes elemental profiles were remarkably similar with higher heating values of 33-34MJkg(-1). Biocrude productivity was highest for marine Derbesia (2.4gm(-2)d(-1)) and Ulva (2.1gm(-2)d(-1)), and for freshwater Oedogonium (1.3gm(-2)d(-1)). These species were therefore identified as suitable feedstocks for scale-up and further HTL studies based on biocrude productivity, as a function of biomass productivity and the yield of biomass conversion to biocrude.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2015.09.021
Abstract: Ash disposal waters from coal-fired power stations present a challenging water treatment scenario as they contain high concentrations of the oxyanions Se, As and Mo which are difficult to remove through conventional techniques. In an innovative process, macroalgae can be treated with Fe and processed through slow pyrolysis into Fe-biochar which has a high affinity for oxyanions. However, the effect of production conditions on the efficacy of Fe-biochar is poorly understood. We produced Fe-biochar from two algal sources "Gracilaria waste" (organic remnants after agar is extracted from cultivated Gracilaria) and the freshwater macroalgae Oedogonium. Pyrolysis experiments tested the effects of the concentration of Fe(3+) in pre-treatment, and pyrolysis temperatures, on the efficacy of the Fe-biochar. The efficacy of Fe-biochar increased with increasing concentrations of Fe(3+) in the pre-treatment solutions, and decreased with increasing pyrolysis temperatures. The optimized Fe-biochar for each biomass was produced by treatment with a 12.5% w/v Fe(3+) solution, followed by slow pyrolysis at 300 °C. The Fe-biochar produced in this way had higher a biosorption capacity for As and Mo (62.5-80.7 and 67.4-78.5 mg g(-1) respectively) than Se (14.9-38.8 mg g(-1)) in single-element mock effluents, and the Fe-biochar produced from Oedogonium had a higher capacity for all elements than the Fe-biochar produced from Gracilaria waste. Regardless, the optimal Fe-biochars from both biomass sources were able to effectively treat Se, As and Mo simultaneously in an ash disposal effluent from a power station. The production of Fe-biochar from macroalgae is a promising technique for treatment of complex effluents containing oxyanions.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-09-2020
DOI: 10.3390/SU12187356
Abstract: Edible seaweeds have significant potential to contribute to sustainable diets that promote health of Pacific Islanders in ecologically, economically, and socially acceptable ways. No studies to date have investigated motivators for and the consumption of edible green seaweed from the genus Caulerpa (sea grapes) in Samoa and Kiribati. An observational, cross-sectional study utilized an interviewer-administered questionnaire to explore consumption behaviors and the role of sea grapes in the current diets of in iduals in Samoa and Kiribati. Of the total 145 participants (n = 79, 54.5% Samoa n = 66, 45.5% Kiribati), half (n = 76, 52%) reported consuming sea grapes. A significantly greater proportion of Samoans (n = 56, 70.9%) reported consumption than I-Kiribati participants (n = 20, 30.3%). A greater proportion of consumers were male (n = 47, 61.8%). Samoan consumers reported consumption of sea grapes with a higher ersity of foods and being related to traditional events or ceremonies. Motivators for consumption varied between countries, with Samoan consumers reporting strong agreement for taste and value for money, and identified sea grapes as nutritious food, as influences on consumption. Easy access was a motivator in Kiribati only. The findings of this study are underpinned by the degree of food security and differences in culture in Samoa and Kiribati. Future public health efforts to integrate traditional fresh food into local food systems will need to work within the existing social parameters in each respective country.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-03-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2015.07.002
Abstract: In most countries the mining industry is required to rehabilitate disturbed land with native vegetation. A typical approach is to stockpile soils during mining and then use this soil to recreate landforms after mining. Soil that has been stockpiled for an extended period typically contains little or no organic matter and nutrient, making soil rehabilitation a slow and difficult process. Here, we take freshwater macroalgae (Oedogonium) cultivated in waste water at a coal-fired power station and use it as a feedstock for the production of biochar, then use this biochar to enhance the rehabilitation of two types of stockpiled soil - a ferrosol and a sodosol - from the adjacent coal mine. While the biomass had relatively high concentrations of some metals, due to its cultivation in waste water, the resulting biochar did not leach metals into the pore water of soil-biochar mixtures. The biochar did, however, contribute essential trace elements (particularly K) to soil pore water. The biochar had very strong positive effects on the establishment and growth of a native plant (Kangaroo grass, Themeda australis) in both of the soils. The addition of the algal biochar to both soils at 10 t ha(-1) reduced the time to germination by the grass and increased the growth and production of plant biomass. Somewhat surprisingly, there was no beneficial effect of a higher application rate (25 t ha(-1)) of the biochar in the ferrosol, which highlights the importance of matching biochar application rates to the requirements of different types of soil. Nevertheless, we demonstrate that algal biochar can be produced from biomass cultivated in waste water and used at low application rates to improve the rehabilitation of a variety of soils typical of coal mines. This novel process links biomass production in waste water to end use of the biomass in land rehabilitation, simultaneously addressing two environmental issues associated with coal-mining and processing.
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 09-12-2009
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS08359
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-01-2014
DOI: 10.1111/JPY.12154
Abstract: To evaluate the quantitative and qualitative changes in amino acids related to internal nitrogen content and growth rate of Ulva ohnoi, the supply of nitrogen to outdoor cultures of the seaweed was manipulated by simultaneously varying water nitrogen concentrations and renewal rate. Both internal nitrogen content and growth rate varied substantially, and the quantitative and qualitative changes in amino acids were described in the context of three internal nitrogen states: nitrogen-limited, metabolic, and luxury. The nitrogen limited state was defined by increases in all amino acids with increasing nitrogen content and growth up until 1.2% internal nitrogen. The metabolic nitrogen state was defined by increases in all amino acids with increasing internal nitrogen content up to 2.6%, with no increases in growth rate. Luxury state was defined by internal nitrogen content above 2.6%, which occurred only when nitrogen availability was high but growth rates were reduced. In this luxury circumstance, excess nitrogen was accumulated as free amino acids, in two phases. The first phase was distinguished by a small increase in the majority of amino acids up to ≈3.3% internal nitrogen, and the second by a large increase in glutamic acid, glutamine, and arginine up to 4.2% internal nitrogen. These results demonstrate that the relationship between internal nitrogen content and amino acid quality is dynamic but predictable, and could be used for the selective culture of seaweeds.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-02-2015
DOI: 10.3390/MD13020788
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-2022
Abstract: Seaweed has been traditionally consumed in Asian and Pacific cultures, yet aside from sushi, is still not commonly eaten in Western societies. Edible seaweeds offer distinct nutritional benefits to terrestrial crops, particularly with respect to mineral and fibre content. Understanding the motivations that drive young Australians to eat seaweed is necessary for food product development and consumer marketing strategies, as well as informing future sustainable production through seaweed aquaculture and wild-harvest practices. An observational cross-sectional online survey with n = 1403 young (19–30 years) Australian seaweed consumers was conducted. The 19-item survey included closed-ended, open-ended, and Likert scale responses. Most respondents were female (89.0%), with tertiary level education or above (57.7%). Seaweed was eaten mostly as a snack (87.7%) and in home-prepared meals (30.7%). The key advantages to consumption were flavour (89.1%), nutrient content (49.1%), and health benefits (44.6%), whilst the key barriers were poor accessibility (59.5%), unaffordable pricing (46.5%), and undesirable packaging (19.0%). The consumers reported wanting more promotion to improve their knowledge about seaweed, in addition to environmentally sustainable packaging and sourcing. Pathways to overcome barriers and encourage greater seaweed consumption are discussed. Most critically, improving the promotion and environmental sustainability of seaweed products will improve intake amongst current and future consumers.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-12-2018
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Date: 04-09-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIORTECH.2012.12.094
Abstract: Land-based aquaculture produces suspended solids in culture pond and settlement pond waters that could be harvested as a bioresource. Suspended solids were quantified, characterised and harvested from these two sources to assess their suitability for conversion to bioproducts. The suspended solids of settlement ponds were less concentrated (87.6±24.7mgL(-1)) than those of culture ponds (131.8±8.8mgL(-1)), but had a higher concentration of microalgae (27.5±4.0%) and consequently higher particulate organic carbon (24.8±4.7%) and particulate nitrogen (4.0±0.8%). The microalgal community also differed between sources with a higher concentration of fatty acids in the biomass from settlement ponds. Consequently, biochar produced from biomass harvested from settlement ponds was higher in organic carbon and nitrogen, with a lower cation exchange capacity. In conclusion, we characterised a renewable and potentially valuable bioresource for algal bioproducts derived from suspended solids in intensive land-based aquaculture.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-07-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJBIOMAC.2022.05.038
Abstract: This study is aimed at identifying and characterising the proteases we previously extracted from the red seaweed Gracilaria edulis with the potential as milk-clotting enzymes. The protease extract was first analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and zymography. Two protease bands with a molecular weight of 44 and 108 kDa were identified, and analysed using in-gel digestion and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Eight peptides from the LC-MS/MS analysis matched those in existing protein databases but they were not related to any protease of the genera Gracilaria and Hydropuntia. Further analysis revealed that more than 80% of the peptide sequence of the algal proteases matched with those from members of the bacteria kingdom, including Gallaecimonas and Alteromonas. Among these, twelve matching homolog proteases were identified as metalloprotease and serine protease. The results indicated that the algal proteases have a close relationship with both algae and bacteria, and suggest that the proteases might have resulted from past bacterial colonisation of the algae and subsequent horizontal gene transfer between bacteria and algae.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 30-01-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-04-2015
DOI: 10.1038/SREP09665
Abstract: Seaweed cultivation is a high growth industry that is primarily targeted at human food and hydrocolloid markets. However, seaweed biomass also offers a feedstock for the production of nutrient-rich biochar for soil amelioration. We provide the first data of biochar yield and characteristics from intensively cultivated seaweeds ( Saccharina , Undaria and Sargassum – brown seaweeds and Gracilaria, Kappaphycus and Eucheuma – red seaweeds). While there is some variability in biochar properties as a function of the origin of seaweed, there are several defining and consistent characteristics of seaweed biochar, in particular a relatively low C content and surface area but high yield, essential trace elements (N, P and K) and exchangeable cations (particularly K). The pH of seaweed biochar ranges from neutral (7) to alkaline (11), allowing for broad-spectrum applications in erse soil types. We find that seaweed biochar is a unique material for soil amelioration that is consistently different to biochar derived from ligno-cellulosic feedstock. Blending of seaweed and ligno-cellulosic biochar could provide a soil ameliorant that combines a high fixed C content with a mineral-rich substrate to enhance crop productivity.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 22-05-2013
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-02-2022
DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS10030497
Abstract: We recently demonstrated that dietary supplementation with seaweed leads to dramatic improvements in immune responses in S. fuscescens, a candidate species for aquaculture development in Asia. Here, to assess whether the immunostimulatory effect was facilitated by changes to the gut microbiome, we investigated the effects of those same seaweed species and four commercial feed supplements currently used in aquaculture on the bacterial communities in the hindgut of the fish. Since we found no correlations between the relative abundance of any particular taxa and the fish enhanced innate immune responses, we hypothesised that S. fuscescens might have a core microbiome that is robust to dietary manipulation. Two recently published studies describing the bacteria within the hindgut of S. fuscescens provided an opportunity to test this hypothesis and to compare our s les to those from geographically distinct populations. We found that, although hindgut bacterial communities were clearly and significantly distinguishable between studies and populations, a substantial proportion (55 of 174 taxa) were consistently detected across all populations. Our data suggest that the importance of gut microbiota to animal health and the extent to which they can be influenced by dietary manipulations might be species-specific or related to an animals’ trophic level.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2007
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 14-06-2012
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-04-2015
DOI: 10.3390/NU7042771
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1039/C6EE00414H
Publisher: Apple Academic Press
Date: 06-02-2014
DOI: 10.1201/B16566
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 13-05-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-03-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1080/08927010802538480
Abstract: Material science provides a direct route to developing a new generation of non-toxic, surface effect-based antifouling technologies with applications ranging from biomedical science to marine transport. The surface topography of materials directly affects fouling resistance and fouling removal, the two key mechanisms for antifouling technologies. However, the field is hindered by the lack of quantified surface characteristics to guide the development of new antifouling materials. Using a biomimetic approach, key surface parameters are defined and quantified and correlated with fouling resistance and fouling removal from the shells of marine molluscs. Laser scanning confocal microscopy was used to acquire images for quantitative surface characterisation using three-dimensional surface parameters, and field assays correlated these with fouling resistance and fouling release. Principle component analysis produced a major component (explaining 54% of total variation between shell surfaces) that correlated with fouling resistance. The five surface parameters positively correlated to increased fouling resistance were, in order of importance, low fractal dimension, high skewness of both the roughness and waviness profiles, higher values of isotropy and lower values of mean surface roughness. The second component (accounting for 20% of variation between shells) positively correlated to fouling release, for which higher values of mean waviness almost exclusively dictated this relationship. This study provides quantified surface parameters to guide the development of new materials with surface properties that confer fouling resistance and release.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 27-03-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-03-2020
DOI: 10.3390/FOODS9040382
Abstract: Seaweeds are a source of food throughout the Pacific region. Kiribati, however, does not have a strong history of using seaweed in their diets, despite having reliable access to indigenous edible seaweeds. A series of peer-led seaweed training workshops held in Kiribati between 2018 and 2019 provided women with knowledge, skills, and motivational support needed to engage in the seaweed supply chain, from harvesting, processing, and marketing to consumption. This study aimed to identify opportunities and enablers to support women’s participation across the seaweed supply chain. Structured interviews with 49 women explored their interest and expected costs and benefits from involvement in the supply chain. There was high interest in most seaweed-related activities and the key motivators were health and nutrition for themselves and their family. Participants were also interested in developing and sharing new skills and saw the potential for income generation. However, there were also clear barriers including a desire for further training in seaweed harvesting, processing, and recipe creation additional social support and in public promotion. Given the natural resources and desire of women to engage in developing this new edible seaweed supply chain in Kiribati, there is now a need for capacity development to build social and economic wellbeing and food security across the broader community. Additional peer-to-peer training opportunities may look to other Pacific Islands where seaweed is already an established and traditional food.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 15-10-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-05-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-12-2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-11-2022
Abstract: Macroalgae produce compounds with industrial, pharmaceutical and nutritional applications. In this study, biomass from the freshwater macroalgal genus Oedogonium was grown in either treated municipal wastewater (M) or ash dam water from a coal-fired power station (D). The biomass was investigated for its metabolic responses in high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-fed rats, a model of human metabolic syndrome. The Oedogonium biomass cultured in M contained higher amounts of K, Mg, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), insoluble fibre and β-carotene, while biomass grown in D contained higher amounts of Al, Fe, V, Zn, Mn and As. Biomass from M further increased body weight and inflammation in the heart and colon in high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-fed rats. In contrast, biomass from D prevented changes in metabolic, cardiovascular and liver parameters without changing tissue histology. We suggest that increased intake of metals and metalloids through macroalgal biomass from D may decrease abdominal fat deposition while polysaccharides, PUFA and carotenoids from M may improve blood glucose responses in an obesogenic diet. Thus, macroalgal biomass grown in different wastewater sources could be acceptable for feed or food applications. This biomass could even provide potential health benefits in diet-induced metabolic syndrome.
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Date: 25-07-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2014
DOI: 10.1111/GCBB.12171
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-11-2017
DOI: 10.3390/NU9111261
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-02-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S10126-014-9564-1
Abstract: Biomass productivity was quantified for the marine macroalga Derbesia tenuissima cultivated outdoors at seven stocking densities from 0.25 to 8 g L(-1) for 5 weeks. Total lipids and fatty acid quantity and quality was measured from s les that were freeze-dried, dried by oven (75 °C), food dehydrator (60 °C), or outdoor in the sun (40 °C) or shade (38 °C). Stocking densities of 0.25 to 2 g L(-1) yielded the highest biomass productivities (>20 g dry weight m(-2) day(-1)) with no effect on total lipid quantity (11 %), or fatty acid quantity (5.3 %) or quality at any density tested. However, there was an interactive effect of stocking density and drying technique, with a decrease of up to 40 % in polyunsaturated fatty acids in sun-dried compared to freeze-dried biomass. Notably, while fatty acid and biomass productivity may be inseparable in macroalgae, cultivation conditions have a significant carryover effect in the post-harvest delivery of high-quality bio-oils.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.WASMAN.2017.03.012
Abstract: In this study, biochar is produced from biosolids with and without alum at a range of temperatures and simulated oxidative aging of the biochars is conducted to quantify the long-term leaching of P and metals. While biosolids containing alum had negligible amounts of plant-available P, after pyrolysis >90% of the P became immediately available for plant growth. When biosolids with no alum were converted into biochar there was a small increase in the availability of P but a larger pool was available after oxidation. Both of the biosolids leached significant amounts of metals after oxidation. In contrast, the biochars had a very low available metal content and this did not increase with oxidation, demonstrating a stable metal content. Pyrolysis is an effective waste management strategy for biosolids that can simultaneously reduce the leaching of metals and increase the efficiency of recycling of P for beneficial re-use.
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 08-08-2012
DOI: 10.3354/AEI00043
Publisher: Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development
Date: 27-08-2020
DOI: 10.15578/SQUALEN.V15I2.466
Abstract: Indonesia is a major player in the aquaculture of red algae, especially carrageenan producing ‘eucheumatoids’ such as Kappaphycus and Eucheuma. However, many current trade names do not reflect the evolutionary species and updated taxonomy, this is especially the case for eucheumatoid seaweeds that are highly variable in morphology and pigmentation. Genetic variation is also not known for the cultivated eucheumatoids in Indonesia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the species and the level of genetic variation within species of cultivated eucheumatoids from various farms across Indonesia, spanning 150-1500 km, using the DNA barcoding method. S les of seaweed were randomly collected at 14 farmed locations between April 2017 and May 2018. For this study the 5-prime end (~ 600 bp) of the mitochondrial-encoded cytochrome oxidase subunit one (COI) was lified and sequenced. Morphological examination showed that the s les were quite variable in branching pattern and color. All s les collected from farms with floating line cultivation were identified based on COI sequences as Kappaphycus alvarezii and showed no variation in the COI gene. One farm s le with bottom-line cultivation was identified as K. striatus. The low genetic variation is in contrast to the phenotypic variation of s les, indicating that variation and phenotypic responses to environments is still found in s les with implications for growth rates and carrageenan yield and quality. Information about the genetic variation in stocks is important base knowledge for maintaining, expanding and continuing seaweed aquaculture.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-02-2006
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2008
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-05-2013
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 04-09-2012
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-05-2018
DOI: 10.3390/W10050626
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1088/1755-1315/404/1/012057
Abstract: The identification and characterization of chemical composition of solid agar extracted solid waste were carried out. The method used was to take s les randomly in several seaweed processing industries to analyze their chemical composition. The parameters tested included the micro-nutrient and macro-nutrient content, growth-stimulating hormone level, and ash contents. The results showed that solid waste from agar extraction consist of micronutrients such as: Cu (4.80 ppm), Fe (0.24 ppm), Zn (8.42 ppm), Mn (57.58 ppm), B (32.32 ppm) as well as the macronutrients such as: N (0.20%), P (0.12%), K (0.17%), C-organic (10.96%), Na (0.66%), Ca (0.61%), Mg (0.09%), CEC (13.5 me/100g), and N/C ratio of 54:7. Growth hormones auxins (191 ppm), gibberellin / GA3 (509.5 ppm), cytokinin-kinetin (244.5 ppm) and cytokinin-zeatin (70.5 ppm). The ash content was 60.19%, a slightly acidic pH of 6.3, diluted in cold water (11.67%) and hot water (23.17%) as well as in 1% sodium hydroxide solution (35.32%). Based on the results of identification and characterization, the solid waste of agar extraction was useful as a raw material for plant fertilizer.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-06-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.FOODCHEM.2017.09.075
Abstract: The chemical and biological properties of carotenoids in the freshwater alga Oedogonium intermedium were investigated in this study. Carotenoids were extracted from the alga by dichloromethane and purified by saponification. The carotenoid content was determined both spectrometrically and by HPLC, the carotenoids identified by HPLC-PDA-APCI-IT-TOF-MS and the extracts analysed for several health-related bioactivities. The crude and saponified extracts contained 3,411.2±20.7 and 2,929.6±5.9µg carotenoids/g dry algal biomass, respectively. Seven major carotenoids were identified, namely neoxanthin, 9'-cis-neoxanthin, loroxanthin, violaxanthin, lutein, α-carotene and β-carotene, which were present in similar amounts in the alga. Both the crude and saponified carotenoid extracts exhibited significant antioxidant activities as well as potent inhibitory effects against several metabolically important enzymes including α-amylase, α-glucosidase, pancreatic lipase and hyaluronidase, but they were poor inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Oedogonium could be an important new source of carotenoids, specifically loroxanthin, which is lacking in terrestrial plants.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 04-02-2019
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to profile the consumers who are likely to eat seaweed products in Australia. The study was conducted as an online survey among 521 Australian consumers. Binary logistic regression modelling was used to profile the consumers. The paper identifies education, familiarity, food neophobia (FNeo), symbolic value of food consumption, health consciousness, as well as snacking behaviour as significant predictors of likelihood to eat seaweed products. Consumers with a university degree (i.e. undergraduates and postgraduates) are four times more likely to eat seaweed products, and those familiar with seaweed products have a 7.6 higher likelihood to eat seaweed products. FNeo makes the largest contribution to the consumer’s likelihood to eat seaweed. A one unit increase in the FNeo score is associated with a 77 per cent decrease in the predicted odds of eating seaweed products in the next 12 months. The symbolic value of food consumption and health consciousness both doubled the likelihood of eating seaweed products. Snacking behaviour increases the likelihood by 185 per cent. The study reveals that early adopters of seaweed food products in western societies are people with higher educational levels, who are adventurous in their food choices and perceive seaweed consumption to have symbolic value. They are also health conscious “snackers”. This study is one of the first attempts to provide insights about consumption of seaweed products and also reveals the consumer groups in western societies that are most likely to eat seaweed products and who can be targeted as potential early adopters.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 18-08-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-03-2016
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 04-06-2014
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-05-2022
DOI: 10.3390/SU14106212
Abstract: Seaweeds are a traditional food throughout the Pacific. In Samoa, the edible seaweeds limu fuafua (sea grapes, Caulerpa racemosa and C. chemnitzia) and limu a’au (red seaweed, Halymenia durvillei and Halymenia sp.) are hand-harvested and consumed fresh or cooked, respectively. However, there is limited scientific or traditional documentation of these commodities. Here, we assess the traditional use and cultural value of edible seaweeds and explore modern consumer preferences and perceived nutritional benefits. Structured enumerator-administered questionnaires were used to examine the relationship between consumption and demographics and subsequently to assess the key motivators for consumption, including perceived nutritional benefits. A total of 320 participants were surveyed across 20 village communities, with 95% reporting consumption of Caulerpa and 40% of Halymenia. Consumption was primarily on a weekly to monthly basis, and even once a day. Motivators and barriers for consumption were then assessed in 320 village participants with an additional 203 intercept interviews at fish markets. A content analysis of the open-ended questions revealed the key motivators for eating limu were health and taste (positive), whereas the key barriers were taste (negative) and availability. We identify opportunities to develop a nutrient evidence base for Samoan seaweeds to aid in marketing, especially for youth.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-05-2012
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.2216/15-114.1
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2015.01.036
Abstract: Macroalgae are a productive resource that can be cultured in metal-contaminated waste water for bioremediation but there have been no demonstrations of this biotechnology integrated with industry. Coal-fired power production is a water-limited industry that requires novel approaches to waste water treatment and recycling. In this study, a freshwater macroalga (genus Oedogonium) was cultivated in contaminated ash water amended with flue gas (containing 20% CO₂) at an Australian coal-fired power station. The continuous process of macroalgal growth and intracellular metal sequestration reduced the concentrations of all metals in the treated ash water. Predictive modelling shows that the power station could feasibly achieve zero discharge of most regulated metals (Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn) in waste water by using the ash water dam for bioremediation with algal cultivation ponds rather than storage of ash water. Slow pyrolysis of the cultivated algae immobilised the accumulated metals in a recalcitrant C-rich biochar. While the algal biochar had higher total metal concentrations than the algae feedstock, the biochar had very low concentrations of leachable metals and therefore has potential for use as an ameliorant for low-fertility soils. This study demonstrates a bioremediation technology at a large scale for a water-limited industry that could be implemented at new or existing power stations, or during the decommissioning of older power stations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Date: 31-05-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-09-2020
DOI: 10.1111/RAQ.12504
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2008
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 09-05-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2012.09.007
Abstract: Aqueous extracts from common tropical seaweeds were evaluated for their effect on the life cycle of the commercially important ectoparasite, Neobenedenia sp. (Platyhelminthes: Monogenea), through the survival of attached adult parasites, period of embryonic development, hatching success and oncomiracidia (larvae) infection success. There was no significant effect of any extract on the survival of adult parasites attached to fish hosts or infection success by oncomiracidia. However, the extracts of two seaweeds, Ulva sp. and Asparagopsis taxiformis, delayed embryonic development and inhibited egg hatching. The extract of A. taxiformis was most effective, inhibiting embryonic development of Neobenedenia sp. and reducing hatching success to 3% compared with 99% for the seawater control. Furthermore, of the 3% of eggs that hatched, time to first and last hatch was delayed (days 14 and 18) compared with the seawater control (days 5 and 7). Asparagopsis taxiformis shows the most potential for development as a natural treatment to manage monogenean infections in intensive aquaculture with the greatest impact at the embryo stage.
Publisher: Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development
Date: 31-05-2019
DOI: 10.15578/SQUALEN.V14I1.384
Abstract: The most rapidly expanding areas for seaweed production in the world are the tropics, including Indonesia, yet these areas are also where molecular identification of local marine flora has only been sporadically employed. Furthermore, a goal for the Government of Indonesia is to ersify the types of seaweed that are being utilized, targeting valuable products and, hand in hand, to develop aquaculture techniques for these species. Morphological methods for species identification in algae are complex or unreliable, due to simple morphologies and plasticity. Therefore, it is crucial that the correct identification is made for species and varieties of commercial interest so that growth and biochemical results can be compared and contrasted between locations, across environments and over time without taxonomic ambiguity. This guide presents entry level methodologies for s le collection, DNA preservation, DNA extraction, PCR, and analyses of DNA sequence data, as a first step in the genetic characterization of both well-known cultivated species and identification of different species with potential economic properties.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-09-2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 31-01-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MD18020097
Abstract: Carrageenans are thickening and gelling agents that may provide health benefits. Iota (ι)-carrageenan, a linear sulfated polysaccharide, is produced by the red seaweed, Sarconema filiforme. This study investigated the potential of this seaweed as a functional food for the reversal of metabolic syndrome and possible mechanisms. Male Wistar rats were ided into four groups in a 16-week protocol: corn starch diet-fed rats (C) C rats supplemented with 5% S. filiforme for the last 8 weeks (CSF) high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-fed rats (H) and H rats supplemented with 5% S. filiforme for the last 8 weeks (HSF). S. filiforme was produced in tank-based aquaculture yielding 27 g dry weight/day/m2 of culture area. H rats developed obesity, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, glucose intolerance, fatty liver and increased left ventricular collagen deposition. S. filiforme supplementation decreased body weight, abdominal and liver fat, systolic blood pressure, plasma total cholesterol concentrations, and plasma activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase. S. filiforme supplementation modulated gut microbiota without changing the Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio. S. filiforme improved symptoms of high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet-induced metabolic syndrome in rats. Possible mechanisms include a reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells into organs as well as prebiotic actions in the gastrointestinal tract.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-04-2021
DOI: 10.1093/BFGP/ELAB023
Abstract: Targeted ‘omics’ research for seaweeds, utilizing various computational and informatics frameworks, has the potential to rapidly develop our understanding of biological processes at the molecular level and contribute to solutions for the most pressing environmental and social issues of our time. Here, a systematic review into the current status of seaweed omics research was undertaken to evaluate the biological ersity of seaweed species investigated (red, green and brown phyla), the levels to which the work was undertaken (from full genome to transcripts, proteins or metabolites) and the field of research to which it has contributed. We report that from 1994 to 2021 the majority of seaweed omics research has been performed on the red seaweeds (45% of total studies), with more than half of these studies based upon two genera Pyropia and Gracilaria. A smaller number of studies examined brown seaweed (key genera Saccharina and Sargassum) and green seaweed (primarily Ulva). Overall, seaweed omics research is most highly associated with the field of evolution (46% of total studies), followed by the fields of ecology, natural products and their biosynthesis, omics methodology and seaweed–microbe interactions. Synthesis and specific outcomes derived from omics studies in the red seaweeds are provided. Together, these studies have provided a broad-scale interrogation of seaweeds, facilitating our ability to answer fundamental queries and develop applied outcomes. Crucial to the next steps will be establishing analytical tools and databases that can be more broadly utilized by practitioners and researchers across the globe because of their shared interest in the key seaweed genera.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-01-2023
Abstract: The red seaweed Asparagopsis taxiformis is a promising ruminant feed additive with anti-methanogenic properties that could contribute to global climate change solutions. Genomics has provided a strong foundation for in-depth molecular investigations, including proteomics. Here, we investigated the proteome of A. taxiformis (Lineage 6) in both sporophyte and gametophyte stages, using soluble and insoluble extraction methods. We identified 741 unique non-redundant proteins using a genome-derived database and 2007 using a transcriptome-derived database, which included numerous proteins predicted to be of fungal origin. We further investigated the genome-derived proteins to focus on seaweed-specific proteins. Ontology analysis indicated a relatively large proportion of ion-binding proteins (i.e., iron, zinc, manganese, potassium and copper), which may play a role in seaweed heavy metal tolerance. In addition, we identified 58 stress-related proteins (e.g., heat shock and vanadium-dependent haloperoxidases) and 44 photosynthesis-related proteins (e.g., phycobilisomes, photosystem I, photosystem II and ATPase), which were in general more abundantly identified from female gametophytes. Forty proteins were predicted to be secreted, including ten rhodophyte collagen-alpha-like proteins (RCAPs), which displayed overall high gene expression levels. These findings provide a comprehensive overview of expressed proteins in A. taxiformis, highlighting the potential for targeted protein extraction and functional characterisation for future biodiscovery.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 04-12-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-05-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-2021
DOI: 10.3390/SU131910946
Abstract: Seaweed farming in Indonesia is carried out throughout much of the archipelago and is mainly undertaken by smallholder farmers. Indonesia is the largest global producer of the red seaweeds Kappaphycus and Eucheuma, which are used to produce carrageenan, and is a major producer of Gracilaria, which is used to produce agar. Seaweed farming is attractive to farmers in rural coastal communities because capital and operating costs are low, farming techniques are not technically demanding, labour requirements are relatively low (allowing farmers to engage in other livelihoods), and production cycles are short (30–45 days), providing regular income. Using reported values for seaweed-farming income, we conclude that seaweed farming can, but does not always, lift rural households above the Indonesian poverty line. In addition to direct financial benefits, seaweed farming also contributes to human and social capital within seaweed farming households and communities. Achieving continued economic and social benefits from seaweed farming will require additional policy development, as well as research and development to support improved and more consistent seaweed productivity and improved product quality at the farm level, provision of effective extension and technical support services, and ersification of the existing value chains in order to reduce the impacts of price fluctuations that are associated with limited global commodity chains.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-12-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2015.04.016
Abstract: Macroalgae can be grown in industrial waste water to sequester metals and the resulting biomass used for biotechnological applications. We have previously cultivated the freshwater macroalga Oedogonium at a coal-fired power station to treat a metal-contaminated effluent from that facility. We then produced biochar from this biomass and determined the suitability of both the biomass and the biochar for soil amelioration. The dried biomass of Oedogonium cultivated in the waste water contained several elements for which there are terrestrial biosolids criteria (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Se and Zn) and leached significant amounts of these elements into solution. Here, we demonstrate that these biomass leachates impair the germination and growth of radishes as a model crop. However, the biochar produced from this same biomass leaches negligible amounts of metal into solution and the leachates support high germination and growth of radishes. Biochar produced at 750 °C leaches the least metal and has the highest recalcitrant C content. When this biochar is added to a low-quality soil it improves the retention of nutrients (N, P, Ca, Mg, K and Mo) from fertilizer in the soil and the growth of radishes by 35-40%. Radishes grown in the soils amended with the biochar have equal or lower metal contents than radishes grown in soil without biochar, but much higher concentrations of essential trace elements (Mo) and macro nutrients (P, K, Ca and Mg). The cultivation of macroalgae is an effective waste water bioremediation technology that also produces biomass that can be used as a feedstock for conversion to biochar for soil amelioration.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2015
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Date: 09-01-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-05-2006
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 11-01-2006
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS306087
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-04-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1111/EVA.12632
Publisher: EDP Sciences
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1051/E3SCONF/202122600004
Abstract: The margin obtained at the upstream in the Indonesian commercial seaweed supply chain is generally small and makes the motivation for business development low. The research aimed to identify the opportunities to overcome these problems. The research conducted with the Kaizen analysis approach that seven upstream business nodes were chosen at three locations: two Gracilaria sp. farmers and one Gracilaria sp. trader in Brebes, one Eucheumatoid farmer and one intermediary trader in Serang, also two Eucheumatoid farmers in Sumenep. The results show some inefficiency in several loci in the business lines of intermediate farmers and traders. These include a gap on moisture content ( Gracilaria of 2 % and Eucheumatoid of 4 %), productivity of Gracilaria pond 0.6 t ha–1 yr–1 and its by-product is 50 %, while the productivity of Eucheumatoids was 10 %. The quality of dry Gracilaria is one grade only. All result loss of potential margin. Root problem analysis found several external factors outside the Kaizen domain and other internal aspects can be corrected through intervention. The Kaizen analysis determined some simple interventions including improvement of cultivation embankments and extension of maintenance periods, use of monofilament net to dry seaweed, optimization of cultivation spacing, and use of moisture checker.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-07-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1111/GCBB.12097
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-01-2013
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 05-10-2006
DOI: 10.3354/MEPS323001
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2008
DOI: 10.1890/07-0248.1
Abstract: Intraspecific variation in resistance to herbivory among genders and life-history phases of primary producers can significantly alter the ecological and evolutionary consequences of plant-herbivore interactions. Seaweeds (macroalgae) with complex life histories have multiple distinct phases with associated variation in traits that can potentially lead to differences in resistance to consumers and provide a unique system in which to simultaneously test the effects of sex and life-history stage on herbivory. We tested the susceptibility to grazing of the three life-history stages and separate sexes of the chemically defended red alga Asparagopsis armata against the sea hare Aplysia parvula, and we related this to the plant quality traits of different stages and genders. Differences in nutrient content and halogenated secondary metabolites between life-history phases were highly sex dependent. Male gametophytes had a low concentration of secondary metabolites and the highest nutrient content. The highest secondary metabolite content was found within the female gametophyte, in the wall of the reproductive structures (cystocarps) that contain the microscopic carposporophyte phase. Feeding choices by A. parvula were consistent with differences in algal quality and defense and resulted in the haploid male gametophytes being the most preferred food type. The diploid carposporophyte found inside the chemically rich cystocarps was the least consumed life-history stage. Selective herbivory of male gametophytes by A. parvula is consistent with an observed shift in gametophyte sex ratio in the field from unity at the beginning of the reproductive season to female bias at the end. The variation in susceptibility to herbivory found between sex and life-history stages of A. armata represents the first ex le of sex-biased consumption in seaweeds and may contribute to the maintenance of complex life histories such as those found in red algae.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center
Date: 19-12-2013
DOI: 10.3354/AEI00088
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-04-2015
DOI: 10.1111/JPY.12300
Abstract: Salinity can affect the quantity and quality of total amino acids (TAAs) in seaweeds indirectly by altering growth rates and thereby diluting or concentrating the amino acid content of the biomass, or directly by altering the synthesis of specific amino acids and osmolytes. This study attempted to partition the indirect and direct effects of salinity on the quantity and quality of TAAs in the green seaweed Ulva ohnoi by culturing it under a range of salinities without nutrient limitation. Both the quantity and quality of TAAs varied across the salinity treatments. Quantity was most strongly related to the growth rate of the seaweed and was highest in the slowest growing seaweed. In contrast, the quality of TAAs (in idual amino acids as a proportion of total content) was most strongly related to salinity for all amino acids, although this varied substantially among in idual amino acids. Increases in salinity were positively correlated with the proportion of proline (46% increase), tyrosine (36% increase), and histidine (26% increase), whereas there was a negative correlation with alanine (29% decrease). The proportion of methionine, with strong links to the synthesis of the osmolyte dimethylsulfoniopropionate, did not correlate linearly with salinity and instead was moderately higher at the optimal salinities for growth. These results show that salinity simultaneously affects the quantity and quality of TAAs in seaweed through both indirect and direct mechanisms, with growth rates playing the overarching role in determining the quantity of TAAs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
Start Date: 03-2020
End Date: 03-2024
Amount: $425,766.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity