The most commonly farmed types of algae include microalgae and macroalgae. Microalgae are microscopic and single-celled. These include species such as Spirulina, Chlorella, and Nannochloropsis. These species are often grown for nutritional supplements, biofuels, and animal feed due to their high protein, omega-3, and pigment content.
Macroalgae are larger and more complex. These include seaweeds such as kelp, nori, and wakame. These are typically cultivated in coastal areas and are used in food products, fertilizers, cosmetics, and biofuels. Algae are selected based on their growth rates, nutrient profiles, and suitability for specific applications.
