The Potential Of Three Culture Techniques To Mitigate Environmental Challenges And Enhance Yields Of Eucheumoids (Rhodophyta; Gigartinales) In Deep Water On The Kenyan Coast
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI)
Download
This research assesses fixed off-bottom, modified off-bottom, and floating raft culture techniques for seaweed farming in Kibuyuni and Mkwiro, Kenya. Floating rafts yielded 30.2 t/ha/year and offered resilience against environmental stressors like temperature spikes and ice-ice disease. Eucheuma denticulatum performed better than Kappaphycus alvarezii. Seasonal growth patterns showed peak yields during cooler months. The study evaluates biophysical constraints like access to deep water and structural fragility. It recommends FR and MB for climate-resilient aquaculture and blue economy scaling. The insights support biodiversity restoration, community livelihoods, and sustainable marine farming.