Cultivation and Product Development Study of Commercially Important Seaweeds in South-Eastern Coast of Bangladesh

Seaweeds are predominantly macroscopic, multicellular, and photosynthetic marine algae that grow primarily in the ocean’s rocky littoral zone. About 154 seaweed species are found in our coastal area, of which 34 belong to green (Chlorophyta), 38 brown (Phaeophyta), and 82 red (Rhodophyta). Among them, 26 species are considered economically important based on their availability, abundance, and use. Seaweeds are mainly available in St. Martin Island, Shaporir dip, Inani, Bakkhali, Kutubdia, Patowartek, Pecherdwip, Teknaf, Shaplapur, and Moheshkhali in Cox’s Bazar region of Bangladesh. They are generally found on our Cox’s Bazar coast from October to April, but the highest abundance occurs from January to March. However, in the case of mangrove forests, seaweeds are available throughout the year. Additionally, seven species are considered commercially cultivable species. Their culture techniques were developed in the long-line and net methods at different Cox’s Bazar region sites. St. Martin Island had the highest biomass yield production of seaweed due to its favorable water quality parameters. Several value-added seaweed products were developed from dried seaweed powder. Industries based on seaweed can potentially contribute to the socioeconomic upliftment of the coastal inhabitants in Cox’s Bazar.