GC-MS-Based Metabolomics Provides Insights into the Biochemical Peculiarity of Seven Brown Algal Species of the Order Fucales

Brown algae are important primary producers in coastal ecosystems, where they provide habitat and food for numerous marine species. For humans, they provide raw materials (food, animal feed, and ingredients for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics) as well as ecosystem services such as coastal protection and carbon sequestration. The molecular characterization of brown algae is necessary to understand their role in ecosystems, their biochemical resources, and responses to environmental stresses—knowledge that is crucial for the sustainable use and biotechnological applications of seaweed. Within this context, we analyzed more than 300 primary and secondary metabolites by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry to elucidate the metabolic profiles of seven habitat-forming species of brown algae in the arctic and temperate seas. Metabolite profiles were discussed considering physiological and ecological characteristics of the different algae, thus revealing the taxon-specific biochemical signatures and metabolite patterns contributing to seaweed adaptation to their typical habitats. Three important groups of metabolites representing polyols, phenolic compounds, and organic acids, were analyzed and discussed in more detail. Our study revealed metabolic diversity of species from the same order and genus, thereby indicating a very distinct regulation at the molecular level to meet metabolic needs of the habitat. The knowledge of different compositions of algal extracts can be used to develop specialized applications for humans in cosmetic, medical, or nutritional sectors.