Sargassum Studies in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, Northern Philippines II. Seasonal Variations in Alginate Yield and Viscosity of Sargassum carpophyllum J. Agardh, Sargassum ilicifolium (Turner) C. Agardh and Sargassum siliquosum J. Agardh (Phaeophyta, Sargassaceae)

Abstract

The yield (%) and viscosity (cps) of alginate from Sargassum carpophyllum, S. ilicifolium and S. siliquosum collected along the inter- and subtidal zones of Currimao, Ilocos Norte were determined monthly for a period of one year. Results show that each species demonstrated an individual pattern of alginate characteristics which is significantly influenced by the collecting zone, fertility state, and collecting month (P < 0.05). Positive correlations were observed in alginate yield and viscosity with species and fertility states. Among the three species, S. ilicifolium is the best species for alginate production for the food industry based on viscosity characteristics, followed by S. siliquosum and S. carpophyllum.