Perspectives in marine biotechnology research and development in India

Abstract

Oceans comprise the biggest part of the biosphere and contain the most ancient and diverse forms of life. It is recognized that the oceans wealth remain largely unexplored and marine organisms represent a vast untapped resource with potential benefits in many different areas of life, including mariculture, fisheries, industry, research tools and environmental applications. The combined expertise of many fields from molecular biology to chemical and physical oceanography contribute to the development of the knowledge platform upon which marine biotechnology applications render goods and services for public benefit. According to the most commonly used definition of biotechnology given by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development statistical definition (OECD), it is “the application of science and technology to living marine organisms, as well as parts, products and models thereof, to alter living or non-living materials for the production of knowledge, goods and services”.