Micro and macroalgae farming are different in the kinds of algae they farm, and therefore their growing methods and the ways the algae is used. Microalgae farming focuses on cultivating microscopic algae species, often in water tanks, photobioreactors, or shallow raceway ponds. These tiny, single-celled organisms, such as spirulina or chlorella, grow suspended in water and are harvested by filtering or centrifugation. They are typically used in health supplements, cosmetics, biofuels, and animal feed.
Macroalgae farming, on the other hand, involves larger, multicellular species such as kelp, nori, and wakame. These seaweeds are usually grown in coastal waters or specially designed tanks, where they attach to ropes, nets, or other substrates. Macroalgae farming often requires ocean access and involves different harvesting techniques, such as manual cutting or mechanical collection.
