Finding the sweet spot: An exploration of environmental factors to optimize Ulva carbohydrate content and composition

Abstract

Green macroalgae from the Ulva genus are rich in polysaccharides of interest, including ulvan, starch, and cellulose. However, their content and structure are impacted by environmental factors, which poses challenges for industrial applications, especially in the context of climate change. To improve yields and quality, it is necessary to understand the effects of environmental parameters, including nutrient availability, temperature, pH, light, salinity, cocultivation, biomass density, pollutants, and others, on Ulva polysaccharides. In this review, we critique what is currently known alongside consideration of the variations between different species and strains.