The interest in G. chilensis biomass production is likely to keep
increasing. Agar industry will continue to be the basis for the exploitation
of this natural resource; nevertheless, promising new market applications
for Gracilaria species, such as the extraction of MAAs for sunblock
cosmetics (Cardozo et al., 2007), or as alternative protein source in fish
feeds (Valente et al., 2006) have come to light. It is thus crucial to pay a
closer look to the management of this resource and improve its
profitability. Cultivation of G. chilensis in long-lines within an IMTA
system was proven more advantageous than in the traditional bottom culture; this seaweed's productivity and physiological performancewere
greatly improved