Proximate composition of four seaweeds commonly found on the portuguese shore

Abstract

Four macroalgae species, three red algae (Palmaria palmata, Gracilaria gracilis and Porphyra umbilicalis) and one green algae (Ulva rigida) were analysed to calculate and compare their proximate composition. These algae were grown in aquaculture in the same geography, and were also harvested in the same season. Ulva rigida differentiates the most from the other with higher contents of carotenoids and lower content in ashes. Palmaria palmata shows the lower contents in total sugars, lipids, and protein, but higher in ashes. Porphyra umbilicalis and Gracilaria gracilis have similar contents showing high contents of both lipids and protein.