Seaweeds and their farming methods

Divu, D (2026) Seaweeds and their farming methods. In: Training Manual on Marine Fish Hatchery Management and Culture. CMFRI Training Manual Series No.72/2026 . ICAR- Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi, pp. 109-128.

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Abstract

As the global demand for food, bio-based products, and sustainable livelihoods continues to increase, there is a growing need to utilize natural resources in ways that balance economic development with environmental sustainability. In response to this challenge, attention is increasingly shifting towards renewable marine resources that can support future food systems, coastal economies, and ecosystem resilience. Among these resources, seaweeds have emerged as one of the most promising biological assets, offering opportunities that extend far beyond their traditional use (Khan, Sudhakar and Mamat, 2024). In recent years, seaweeds have attracted considerable scientific, industrial, and policy attention owing to their versatility and their potential to contribute to multiple sectors simultaneously (Buschmann et al., 2017). Their expanding applications, increasing global demand, and compatibility with sustainable production systems have positioned seaweed farming as an emerging marine enterprise with significant economic and environmental relevance. For coastal nations such as India, endowed with an extensive coastline and favourable environmental conditions, seaweed cultivation offers an opportunity to diversify marine-based livelihoods while promoting the sustainable utilization of coastal resources. The development of a successful seaweed sector, however, depends on more than cultivation alone. A comprehensive understanding of the resource, appropriate farming practices, post-harvest management, product diversification, and the broader socio-economic and environmental significance of seaweed farming is essential for realizing its full potential. Bridging scientific knowledge with practical applications is therefore crucial for promoting the sustainable growth of the sector and ensuring its long-term benefits for coastal communities.

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