Biomass Production and Commercial Applications of Agarophyte Species

Agar, a naturally occurring polysaccharide with exceptional gelling, thickening, and stabilising qualities, is derived mostly from agarophyte species, which are mainly from the red algae genera *Gelidium*, *Gracilaria*, and *Pterocladia*. Food processing, medicines, biotechnology, cosmetics, and newer sectors like bioplastics and nutraceuticals are just a few of the many businesses that use agar extensively. Significant research has been conducted into improving biomass production methods to guarantee sustainable and economical supply chains in response to the growing demand for agar worldwide. With an emphasis on both contemporary aquaculture systems and traditional wild harvesting, this study offers a thorough review of biomass production methods. Despite its historical significance, wild harvesting has sparked worries about resource depletion and ecological sustainability. Aquaculture techniques, on the other hand, such regulated tank-based agriculture and open-water farming, have become competitive substitutes to satisfy market needs while reducing their negative effects on the environment. There is a thorough discussion of the main variables affecting biomass output, including salinity, water temperature, nutrient content, and light availability.