INVESTIGATING THE BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF PELAGIC SARGASSUM FROM THE CARIBBEAN REGION

Abstract

Pelagic Sargassum biomass is a recurrent issue in the Caribbean region, negatively impacting the environment, health, and socio-economic systems. This study investigated the biochemical and elemental composition of pelagic Sargassum biomass harvested from various locations in the Caribbean to identify its potential for economic applications. The study revealed high volatility in biomass quality depending on location and season. The authors recommend prioritizing biorefinery methods for amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins extraction and purification to valorize pelagic Sargassum biomass into high-value outputs. The analysis also revealed the challenge of developing reliable and robust industrial processes due to variability in biomass quantity, quality, and location. Results showed differences in ash, metals and metalloids, vitamins, fatty acids, amino acids and biogenic amines, and monosaccharides for samples from locations such as Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. This study aims to inform stakeholders and policy-makers about the limitations and opportunities for biomass valorization in the Caribbean region.