POTENTIAL GROWTH OF CULTIVABLE SEAWEEDS WHICH OCCUR IN ENSEADA DE ARMAÇÃO DO ITAPOCOROY (PENHA, SC): PRELIMINARY EVALUATION

Abstract

This work aims to test growth methodology and to evaluate cultivation potential of the red algae Hypnea musciformis (carragenophyte), Gracilaria cervicornis (cf.) and Gracilaria caudata, (agarophytes). In vitro growth was tested for the three algae, and in situ growth was tested for Gracilaria cervicornis (cf.). Preliminary results indicate high growth rates to in situ and in vitro tests, when compared to literature results. Gracilaria cervicornis (cf.) in vitro growth rates ranged from 1,8 to 5,7 % day-1, and in situ growth rates ranged from 2,3 to 8,7 % day-1. Gracilaria caudata presented lower growth rates, which ranged from 0,8 and 4,9 % day-1. Hypnea musciformis presented highest growth rates, which ranged from 5,6 and 15,2 % day-1. This results are preliminary. For a good evaluation of productive and cultivation potencial of this algae, complementary tests are needed. However, observed growth rates suggest this algae deserves more research aiming to implement its cultivation on Enseada de Armação do Itapocoroy (Penha, SC).