Macroalgae as the Source for Environmental Assessment

Macroalgal tissues can be used as indicating materials for environmental assessment using several algal biotechnology techniques. As bioassay test organisms, macroalgal tissues are required as an axenic state for suitable biological indicators. Callus formation and blade regeneration under suitable culture conditions are also useful for the tests. Quantitative method using tetrazolium chloride or $alamarBlue^{TM}$ is devised on a rapid assessment of the seaweed viability. The use of RT-PCR especially differential display technique should provide the means for the detection and isolation of the responding genes induced by the environmental stress. Seaweed thriving in more environmental changes might contain more diverse biologically active substances.