Introduction to Seaweeds

Overview

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This course was produced by the Algae Technology Educational Consortium and UC San Diego with funding from the Algae Foundation, the National Renewable Energy Lab, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Syllabus

Seaweed Introduction

This section will cover what algae are, how they've evolved, and how they've transformed our planet. We will also go over how humans have used algae throughout history.

Seaweed Biology

Algae are extremely diverse, and in this section you will learn about the three distinct seaweed taxa.

Ecology and Seaweed Ecosystem Services

Seaweeds are found almost everywhere and have complex ecologies. This section covers the basics of seaweed ecology including some of the organisms they interact with in nature and in industrial settings.

Seaweed Aquaculture

This week includes techniques for the cultivation and marine agronomy of seaweeds including open water and tank cultivation.

Seaweeds and Humanity

This section will cover how humans have used seaweed as a medicine, in religion and folklore, and in community events throughout history.

Seaweed Products

In this section we will examine the important steps of seaweed product development and utilization. From simple foods to fuels and plastics.

Seaweed Biotechnology

In the final week of this course, we will describe modern biotechnology efforts to improve the nature of seaweed cultivars through the use of genetic manipulation and modification.