Halophytic Algae Research in the U.S. and Applications to Environment, Commerce, and Human Health

Abstract

There is growing interest in halophytic algae applications in the United States. Indeed, halophytic algae and algae products are more and more a part of everyday American life, from edible seaweeds in sushi restaurants, to the possibility that one day algae products will be the precursors to fuels in cars, trucks, and planes. This review surveys the current applied U.S. research activities on these remarkable organisms- including marine and hypersaline macroalgae, microalgae, and cyanobacteria. For example, marine algae can be used for the remediation of coasts and estuaries, and be the cause of harmful blooms that plague commercial fisheries and coastal communities. Algae are also the source of nutraceuticals that enhance human health, and neurotoxins that could cause fatalities. The body of literature presented here suggests that halophytic algae can simultaneously benefit and devastate the environment, commercial efforts and human health. Current applied halophytic algae research in the US is attempting to harness these properties for commercial use and societal benefit. These efforts indicate that there is much promise for the future development of novel applications and products from halophytic algae.