Chemical Characterization of Seaweeds From Biri, Northern Samar, Philippines

This research was carried out in an attempt to ascertain the phytochemical screening on selected seaweed species from different barangays in Biri, Northern Samar, Philippines using a descriptive research approach. It also aimed to identify the seaweed species in the study area and determine the three most and least-frequently appearing species respectively, which were subjected to phytochemical screening and the determination of extracts and its physicochemical constituents as conducted from November 2022 to April, 2023. Seaweed samples were collected, identified, and authenticated by an expert. Specimens were preserved in jars containing 10% formaldehyde and seawater in equal volumes. Fresh samples of the three most frequently appearing and the three least frequently appearing species were used for the screening procedures. Results revealed a total of 44 seaweed species present in selected barangays of Biri, Northern Samar. The most-frequently appearing species were Ulva reticulata, Hormophysa cuneiformis, and Turbinaria conoides, while the least-frequently appearing species were Hydropuntia edulis, Laurencia papillosa, and Tricleocarpa fragilis. Chemical characterization of these species confirmed the presence of alkaloids, saponin, phenolic compounds, and anthraquinones, although not all of them contained these metabolites. Lipids and proteins were absent in all species tested. Meanwhile, the ash content of the samples is relatively high, implying that high amounts of minerals may be found in seaweeds. Thus, the researchers recommend the replication of this research in other areas of the province to document seaweed species and their potential applications in the functional food and nutraceutical industries. This will help develop natural products with economic or commercial significance to the residents. Likewise, more specific tests for lipids and proteins in seaweeds may be used in future investigations.