Abstract:
The simplest plants found in the plant kingdom, belong to the group known as algae. Microscopic marine algae are commonly called seaweeds. In primary classification, the algae are defined into fifteen classes, but only three are present in sufficient quantities in nature to have direct commercial importance. These are chlorophyceae, phaeophyceae and Rhodophyceae. Their distribution is limited to the upper edge of the oceans because of light requirements for both benthic (attached) and planktonic (freefloating) species. Economic importance and summary of the various species of the seaweeds eaten in different regions of the world is given in the article. Role of seaweeds as animal fodder, fertilizers and fuel has been viewed. Nutritive value of seaweeds, industrial uses of seaweeds, their role in medicine and marine plant resources development aspects in Pakistan are described.
Page(s):
38-46
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Hamdard Medicus, Volume: 35, Issue: 1, Year: 1992