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Introduction to Seaweeds

Ira "Ike" Levine and Jennifer Smith

This course was produced by the Algae Technology Educational Consortium and UC San Diego with funding from the Algae Foundation, the National Renewable Energy Lab, and the U.S. Department of Energy.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Seaweed Introduction
This section will cover what algae are, how they've evolved, and how they've transformed our planet. We will also go over how humans have used algae throughout history.
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Seaweed Biology
Algae are extremely diverse, and in this section you will learn about the three distinct seaweed taxa.
Ecology and Seaweed Ecosystem Services
Seaweeds are found almost everywhere and have complex ecologies. This section covers the basics of seaweed ecology including some of the organisms they interact with in nature and in industrial settings.
Seaweed Aquaculture
This week includes techniques for the cultivation and marine agronomy of seaweeds including open water and tank cultivation.
Seaweeds and Humanity
This section will cover how humans have used seaweed as a medicine, in religion and folklore, and in community events throughout history.
Seaweed Products
In this section we will examine the important steps of seaweed product development and utilization. From simple foods to fuels and plastics.
Seaweed Biotechnology
In the final week of this course, we will describe modern biotechnology efforts to improve the nature of seaweed cultivars through the use of genetic manipulation and modification.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores seaweed utilization, which is important to the plastics industry
Teaches ecology and ecosystem services of seaweed, which is especially relevant for ecology students
Covers seaweed biotechnology and its applications, which are essential for life science students
Taught by Jennifer Smith and Ira "Ike" Levine, who are leaders in the field of seaweed biotechnology
Advisory to take other courses first before taking this course

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Activities

Coming soon We're preparing activities for Introduction to Seaweeds. These are activities you can do either before, during, or after a course.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Seaweeds will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Agriculturist
An Agriculturist is someone who is involved with cultivating seaweeds and other aquatic plants. This course helps build a foundation in seaweed biology, ecology, and cultivation. This course covers the techniques for cultivating and harvesting seaweeds, as well as the environmental factors that affect their growth. This makes it an excellent resource for anyone who wants to pursue a career in seaweed farming in order to provide sustenance for a growing population.
Aquaculturist
Aquaculturists work with cultivating aquatic organisms, such as fish, shellfish, and seaweeds. This course provides a comprehensive overview of seaweed biology, ecology, and cultivation techniques, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career in seaweed aquaculture. This course will help you understand the potential of seaweeds as a food source and how to cultivate them in a sustainable way.
Biochemist
Biochemists study the chemical processes that occur in living organisms, including seaweeds. This course provides a strong foundation in seaweed biology and biotechnology, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career in biochemistry. This course includes information on genetic manipulation and modification to improve the nature of seaweed cultivars, making it particularly relevant to those interested in this field.
Biologist
Biologists study living organisms, including seaweeds. This course provides a comprehensive overview of seaweed biology, ecology, and cultivation, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career in biology. With this knowledge, you can build a foundation for a career in research or conservation.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers work to protect the environment and human health. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in seaweed biology, ecology, and conservation, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career in environmental engineering. You will learn about sustainable seaweed cultivation practices and how seaweeds can be used to mitigate the effects of pollution and climate change.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientists work to protect and restore the environment. This course will provide a strong foundation in seaweed biology, ecology, and conservation, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career in environmental science. You will learn about the complex ecologies of seaweeds and how to protect them from threats such as pollution and climate change.
Marine Biologist
Marine Biologists study the biology of marine organisms, including seaweeds. This course can help marine biologists understand the evolution of seaweeds and their role in the marine ecosystem. It also teaches the basics of seaweed cultivation and conservation, which are essential to preserving marine environments.
Naturalist
Naturalists study the natural world, including seaweeds. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in seaweed biology, ecology, and conservation, making it a valuable resource for those interested in a career as a naturalist. You will learn about the diverse roles that seaweeds play in marine ecosystems and the threats they face.
Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microorganisms, including those found in seaweeds. This course can help microbiologists understand the role of microorganisms in seaweed biology and ecology. It may also be useful for those interested in using microorganisms to improve seaweed cultivation or develop new products from seaweeds.
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the oceans, including the organisms that live in them, such as seaweeds. This course may be useful for oceanographers who want to learn more about the biology, ecology, and cultivation of seaweeds. This knowledge can be applied to research on seaweed ecosystems and the development of sustainable seaweed cultivation practices.
Researcher
Researchers conduct scientific studies to advance our understanding of the world. This course may be useful for researchers who want to learn more about the biology, ecology, and cultivation of seaweeds. This knowledge can be applied to a variety of research projects, such as developing new seaweed-based products or studying the effects of climate change on seaweed ecosystems.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice on their use. This course may be useful for pharmacists who want to learn more about the medicinal uses of seaweeds. This knowledge can be used to provide patients with information about the potential benefits of seaweed supplements and to help them make informed decisions about their health.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. This course may be useful for Veterinarians who want to learn more about the medicinal uses of seaweeds. This knowledge can be used to provide animals with information about the potential benefits of seaweed supplements and to help them make informed decisions about their health.
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science to students. This course may be useful for Science Teachers who want to learn more about the biology, ecology, and cultivation of seaweeds. This knowledge can be used to develop lesson plans and activities that teach students about the importance of seaweeds and the threats they face.
Physician
Physicians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. This course may be useful for physicians who want to learn more about the medicinal uses of seaweeds. This knowledge can be used to provide patients with information about the potential benefits of seaweed supplements and to help them make informed decisions about their health.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Seaweeds.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of seaweed biology, from their evolution to their ecology. It is written for advanced undergraduates and graduate students.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of seaweed ecology and uses. It covers a wide range of topics, including seaweed biology, ecology, cultivation, and products.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the biology of microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, and viruses. It is widely used as a textbook in undergraduate microbiology courses.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of phycology, the study of algae. It is written for advanced undergraduates and graduate students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the taxonomy of bacteria. It valuable reference for students and researchers in the field of microbiology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of applied phycology, including the use of algae in biotechnology, medicine, and food production. It is particularly useful for providing additional depth to the course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of phycology, including the biology, ecology, and applications of algae. It is particularly useful as a reference tool and for additional reading.

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