Systematic collection of Ulva and mariculture of Porphyra: biotechnology against eutrophication in the Venice lagoon

There is a widespread need for active intervention in eutrophicated marine ecosystems in order to reduce the occurrence of green tides, hypoxia and other ill effects. A significant contribution to such efforts can be made by harvesting natural biomasses and using aquaculture techniques to alter the species composition in the target area. By cultivating species with intrinsic economic value, the large costs associated with harvest and removal of undesirable species can be reduced. This paper highlights the efficiency of the Ulva system in removing nutrients from the water in the Venice Lagoon and shows the economic validity of cultivating seaweeds such as Porphyra species.

Key words:

• Mariculture
• biotechnology
• eutrophication
• ecosystems
• seaweed