Optimizing Growth Conditions and Biochemical Properties of Chondracanthus acicularis (Rhodophyta) in Laboratory Settings

This study aimed to evaluate the laboratory cultivation of Chondracanthus acicu laris, focusing on key environmental parameters such as nutrient levels and light exposure. The results provide insights into the optimal growth conditions and biochemical com position of C. acicularis, which are crucial for its sustainable exploitation in industrial applications. Significant differences in the relative growth rate (RGR) and productivity (Y) were found between the different treatments. Seaweed grown on Provasoli (PES) Medium with white LED light and red LED light showed the best growth rates. Negative growth was observed in treatments with Nutribloom plus®, and blue LED light. The proximate composition analysis revealed a high moisture content across all treatments, with significant differences in ash and organic matter content between the treatments. The use of LED light played a crucial role in optimizing growth by influencing photosynthetic efficiency and pigment production. The proximate composition varied significantly between treatments, especially ash and organic matter. Light and nutrient conditions also influenced pigmenta tion and colour characteristics, with significant changes in phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, and chlorophyll concentration. PES treatments consistently showed the highest colour variation. These findings highlight the influence of environmental conditions on seaweed growth, productivity, pigmentation, and proximate composition, and provide valuable insights for optimized cultivation strategies.