Advances in <i>Ulva</i> Biology and Cultivation

Ulva (Chlorophyta), an edible green seaweed, exhibits simple morphology and versatility in biological diversity. These species hold significant ecological and commercial value across the globe. This chapter discusses recent advancements in Ulva biology and cultivation, including developments in taxonomy, biogeography, life cycles, uses, and production methods. Molecular phylogenetic studies have helped to clarify species boundaries, reveal previously hidden diversity, and resolve historical naming problems, such as the merging of Enteromorpha. Additionally, the literature on global distribution (temperate to tropical areas), influential environmental factors, and effects of climate change for distribution of Ulva species and their ecological roles have been studied. Moreover, evaluation of morphology, cellular organization, isomorphic biphasic life cycles, and influential parameters for reproduction play a paramount role in achieving sustainable biomass production because Ulva has potent applications, including in functional food, fodder, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, fertilizers, cosmetics, biomaterials, biopolymers, and environmental services. Our study includes an examination of production trends reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), along with a comparison of red and brown seaweeds. Finally, yet importantly, this chapter investigates literature on advancements in cultivation methods, from open-water systems to controlled land-based reactors, highlighting the opportunities and challenges for sustainable commercialized scale-up.