Characterization of the invasive macroalgae Rugulopteryx Okamurae for potential biomass valorisation

This study aimed to examine the composition and properties of the invasive macroalgae R. okamurae and explore potential applications. The results showed that the seaweed biomass is mainly composed of structural carbohydrates, with alginate being the main constituent, accounting for 32 % of its total composition and with a mannuronic and guluronic acid ratio (M/G) ratio of 0.93. It also has a relatively high concentration of fucose, related to the presence of fucoidans that have important biological functions. Among the mineral contents, a high magnesium and calcium (7107 and 5504 mg/kg) concentration, and the presence of heavy metals above legislated thresholds, were notable. R. okamurae also contained a high lipid content of 17 %, mainly composed of saturated fatty acids, but with a significant fraction of n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (18 %) resulting in a low n6/n3 ratio (0.31), that has health benefits. The protein content of R. okamurae was 12 %, with high-quality proteins, as essential amino acids (mainly leucine, phenylalanine and valine) constitute 32 % of the total amino acids. It also showed a high polyphenol content and outstanding antioxidant properties (106.88 mg TE/g). Based on these findings, R. okamurae has significant potential as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds that can add value to different sectors, including food, feed, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

This work was done within the framework of a collaboration with HISPANAGAR S.L (Burgos, Spain). The research was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities through projects PDI2020-114821RB-I00, PID2020-117744RJ-I00, as well as TED2021-129711B-I00 and CEX2021-001189-S, funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033. The authors also acknowledge funding through the European project CIRCALGAE under grant agreement 101060607. In all projects, funding from “ERDF A way of making Europe” or the “NextGenerationEU/PRTR” is also acknowledged, as appropriate.

With funding from the Spanish government through the ‘Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence’ accreditation (CEX 2021-001189-S)

Peer reviewed