Nolwenn Kergosien1,2, Jeremy Brebion1, Franck Hennequart1 Valérie Stiger-Pouvreau2, Solène Conan2, Maud Benoit-Le Gélébart1
1ALGAIA, Research and Development Centre, 91 rue Edouard Branly, 50000 Saint Lô, France
2UBO-LEMAR, IUEM, Technopôle Brest-Iroise, Rue Dumont D’urville, 29 280 Plouzané, France
The SAVE-C project is dealing with the knowledge gaps about the ecology of the Sargassum raft on the coast and their threats in the Caribbean, but also suggest solutions to transform the abundant biomasses of macroalgae stranded on the beaches into socio-economic opportunities. Using a multidisciplinary approach of field studies, ecological and physiological experiments, and biotechnological processes, the project SAVE-C will: (1) develop knowledge on Sargassum species responsible for the seaweed-rafts and their beaching’s, (2) collect and develop storage solutions for huge biomasses of Sargassum before its industrial application in both agriculture and biomaterials.
The present work is dedicated to analysis and biomasses valorisation (WP5, Algaia-Coleader). First results lead to a well of knowledge on chemical composition of the 3 morphotypes (Sargassum Natans III, Sargassum Natans VIII and Sargassum fluitans) in comparison to Sargassum muticum harvesting in France (Normandie). A part will be dedicated to the seasonality study and comparison in terms of fucoidans, laminarans, alginates, mannitol and phenolic compounds, and another one on liquid extracts produced. Those metabolites are targeted for the development of seaweed biostimulant production. First results on agronomical tests will be also revealed. A biorefinery concept at large scale will be drafted to provide recommendations regarding valorization of this huge quantity of Sargassum matter.