Q: Is it “algae is” or “algae are”?

Algae actually is the plural form of the word alga, which is an individual single-celled organism. In Latin, Algae means “seaweed.” Algae are important in aquatic ecology because the tiny organisms that live suspended in algae are the food base for most marine food chains.

Q: Why are algae so important?

Microscopic algae are arguably the source of more than half of the world’s oxygen though photosynthesis.  They turn carbon dioxide into biomass and release oxygen.  Ecologically, algae are at the base of the food chain. They are the beginning of the transfer of solar energy to biomass that transfers up trophic levels to the top predators.  Phytoplankton, are largely responsible for this primary production.  Phytoplankton are mostly single-celled type of algae, that are in turn eaten by small animals called zooplankton (mostly crustaceans such as copepods) that drift near the surface of the sea. The zooplankton are in turn fed upon by larger zooplankton, small fish, and filter feeding whales (think krill). Energy transfer happens and larger fish eat the smaller ones. At the top of the open-water food web may be fish-eating birds, seals, whales, very large fish such as sharks or bluefin tuna, and humans.

The larger algae provide a habitat for fish and other invertebrate animals. A great example of this is Macrocystis, which is a keystone species in a giant kelp forest.

As algae die, they are consumed by organisms called decomposers (mostly fungi and bacteria). The decomposers feed on decaying plants and consume the high-energy molecules essentially re-mineralizing the biomass into lower-energy molecules that are used by other organisms in the food web.

(Source – https://algaeresearchsupply.com/pages/ecological-importance-of-algae)

Q: What are Omega-3 fatty acids and their benefits?

EPA and DHA are both fatty acids, collectively known as Omega-3s. Omega-3s are considered “good fats”. There is evidence to show that they can help ease arthritis, slow mental decline, decrease heart disease, and prevent depression. Our bodies cannot develop Omega-3 naturally, however. We must get our supply from foods or supplements that are rich in Omega-3s.

Q: How does algae work in human nutraceuticals?

The challenge: your body requires true omega-3 in the forms of EPA and DHA. Foods like flax, chia, and walnuts provide another form, ALA, that your body tries to convert into the good stuff, but science shows that, at best, we can convert 8% of that ALA into true omega-3. We need EPA and DHA for our eyes, our hearts, our brains, and our joints. Most supplements are made from fish…but guess where the fish get it? The solution is algae. Sustainably grown algae delivers real EPA and DHA, so there’s no conversion needed…and no disruption of the ocean, either.

(Source: https://iwilife.com/products/vegan-omega-3-supplement?variant=41953464418504)

Q: How do algae work in animal feed?

GreatOPlus (GO+) Feed Nutrient is a performance feed ingredient designed to optimally deliver essential fatty acids and balance the Omega 6:3 ratio. Using proprietary technology, GO+ delivers enhanced animal performance and production using superior levels of Omega-3s to consumer beef products when added to existing daily rations.

Essential fatty acids play a critical role in the health, growth efficiency, and quality of ruminant animals. GO+ delivers not just Omega-3, but long chain fatty acids EPA and DHA that are not produced efficiently in the animal, allowing increased conversion rate. Microalgae also is an additional source of poly-unsaturated fats.

GreatOPlus Feed Nutrient has undergone extensive research and feedlot testing. Research data and customer reports show that inclusion of GO+ in daily rations and lick tubs provides multiple animal health benefits.

• Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and need for antibiotics
• Improved ability to handle heat and feedlot stress
• Vastly improved reproductive health, increased fertility, motility
• Improved autoimmune response – Beta Glucans bind toxins to stimulate the immune system.
• Highly digestible protein and energy source improves rumen bypass, conversion, and nutrient absorption
• Improved hoof health provides stress relief for cattle in feedlot environments
• Relief from bovine high-mountain disease (low oxygen saturation), pinkeye, and other conditions

 

Q: How Is Algae Farmed?

Algae can be grown and harvested like any other agricultural crop. It can be grown using a brackish water unsuitable for cultivating agricultural crops.

Once harvested the oil can be extracted for use in health products.

In addition to algae oil, the protein and carbohydrates in algae can also be used for food, animal feed, health products and supplements, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and even cosmetics.

(Source: http://allaboutalgae/what-are-algae)