Sargassum hatchery-based cultivation and mariculture techniques in the Philippines: Practices, challenges, and future prospects

Sargassum species are ecologically and economically significant marine macroalgae with potential applications in food, pharmaceuticals, biofuel production, and coastal habitat restoration. While Sargassum hatchery and mariculture techniques are well-documented in China and South Korea, research specific to the Philippines remains limited. This review examines the distribution, seasonality, and cultivation practices of Sargassum in the Philippines, emphasizing the biological and socio-economic factors affecting its successful farming. Unlike temperate regions where growth is highly seasonal, Philippine Sargassum populations exhibit year-round growth with peak biomass during cooler months (November-February). Challenges such as substrate instability, biofouling, and predation hinder large-scale out-planting, while socio-economic barriers include a lack of policy support, infrastructure, and fluctuating market demand. Existing hatchery-based techniques, such as zygote liberation and vegetative fragmentation, show promise but require optimization to enhance survival and productivity. Future research should focus on refining grow-out conditions, improving out-planting success, and developing sustainable farming models suited to Philippine coastal environments. With targeted investments in research, policy, and industry collaboration, Sargassum mariculture in the Philippines has the potential to support economic development while promoting marine conservation.