In a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of the World Aquaculture Society, researchers from Universidad Científica del Sur and Universidad Andrés Bello have introduced an innovative seabed cultivation technology known as the Tree-Like Cultivation System (TLS). This method significantly enhances the biomass production of the edible red algae Chondracanthus chamissoi.
This innovative approach not only promises to meet the growing demand for this valuable algae but also offers a sustainable alternative to the overexploitation of natural seaweed beds.
The Importance of “Yuyo” Chondracanthus chamissoi
Chondracanthus chamissoi, commonly known as “yuyo” or “mococho,” is a red algae of great socioeconomic importance, especially in Peru and Chile. It has been a staple food in the local diet since pre-Inca times and is now a key export product for both industrial applications and direct human consumption. However, rising demand has led to the overexploitation of natural populations, threatening the sustainability of this resource.
The Challenge of Seaweed Cultivation
Traditional cultivation methods for C. chamissoi have faced significant challenges, such as low biomass production and high susceptibility to epiphyte infestations. Previous studies reported biomass yields ranging from 44 to 217 grams per linear meter, which is insufficient to meet market demand. The need for a more efficient and sustainable cultivation method has never been more urgent.
Introducing the Tree-Like Cultivation System (TLS)
The Tree-Like Cultivation System (TLS) is a seabed farming technology designed to optimize the growth of C. chamissoi by maximizing water column utilization and minimizing biomass loss due to detachment.
The system consists of vertical lines anchored to the seabed, with substrates inoculated with seaweed fragments distributed along the lines. This configuration allows for efficient space utilization and reduces the risk of epiphyte colonization.
Key Findings of the Study
The study’s results highlight the significant impact of both substrate type and harvest frequency on seaweed biomass production:
- Substrate Type: Raffia substrates outperformed rope substrates, likely due to their greater ability to promote algae attachment and growth.
- Harvest Frequency: Less frequent harvesting (every 90 days) resulted in the highest biomass accumulation and the lowest epiphyte load. In contrast, monthly harvesting did not favor biomass accumulation and increased epiphyte infestation.
Record Biomass Production
The tree-line system demonstrated an unprecedented biomass production for C. chamissoi, with the highest yield exceeding 1000 g m⁻¹ for raffia substrates harvested at 90-day intervals.
This result is substantially higher than previous studies using vegetative propagation, indicating the potential of this new cultivation technology.
Implications for Seaweed Farming
The success of the tree-line system presents new opportunities for seaweed aquaculture, particularly for C. chamissoi, also known as “yuyo” or “mococho.”
The increased biomass production and efficient space utilization make this technology a promising solution to meet market demand while reducing pressure on natural seaweed populations.
The authors recommend using raffia substrates and harvesting at 90-day intervals to optimize biomass production and minimize epiphyte load.
Future research should focus on refining the technology and exploring its applicability to other seaweed species and environments.
Conclusion
The tree-line system represents a significant advancement in seaweed cultivation technology. By optimizing cultivation conditions and maximizing biomass production, this innovative approach can contribute to the sustainable growth of the seaweed aquaculture industry and ensure the availability of valuable marine resources.
Contact
Paul Baltazar Guerrero
Grupo de Investigación en Acuicultura Sostenible (GIAS), Laboratorio de Investigación en Cultivos Marinos (LICMA), Dirección General de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación, Universidad Científica del Sur
Lima 15067, Perú.
Email: pbaltazar@cientifica.edu.pe
Reference (open access)
Arbaiza, S., Castañeda-Franco, M., Guerrero, P. B., & Bulboa, C. (2025). Tree-line system: A sea bottom cultivation technology to improve the biomass production of edible seaweed Chondracanthus chamissoi (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta). Journal of the World Aquaculture Society, 56(2), e70007. https://doi.org/10.1111/jwas.70007
