Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
(eISSN: 2229-4473)
Algal diversity of economically important species from a selected site of the Veraval coast, Gujarat, India
*Article not assigned to an issue yet
Gadhiya Dinesh, Joshi Jignasa B., Joshi Nilesh, Jani Manish, Kavane Aarti
Short Communications | Published: 15 June, 2026
First Page: 0
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Keywords: Biodiversity u0026 conservation, Dictyotaceae, Macroalgae, Veraval coast, Species diversity, n Ulva fasciatan
Abstract
Marine algae are a heterogeneous group of autotrophic organisms that are a viable source of valuable compounds with potential applications in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Looking at the immense importance of these algae and the inadequate literature resources available on them in the Indian cohort, the present pilot investigation has been aimed at the identification of economically important algal species using biodiversity analysis at the Veraval coast. The Somnath Veraval coastal region, bordering the Arabian sea, offers a variety of habitats like rocky shores, sandy beaches, and coral reefs that support the growth of different macroalgae species. Data collection and observations were carried out using the belt transect method of random sampling from different sites. The study revealed the occurrence of a total of 10 families with 15 genera and 21 species, and the distribution percentage of species in each class (Chlorophyceae, Phaeophyceae, and Rhodophyceae) remains the same (33.33%). During the investigation, it was found that economically important species like Ulva lactuca, Ulva fasciata, and Caulerpa sp. were present in the collected samples. The species belonging to the family Dictyotaceae were found dominant (71%) followed by the members of the Caulerpaceae family (43%). The findings provide baseline information for future long-term monitoring of macroalgal diversity along the Veraval coast. Further studies focusing on seasonal variation, biomass estimation, biochemical profiling, and bioactive compound characterization may support sustainable utilization and conservation of these economically important marine resources. It supports sustainable collection and conservation strategies, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
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Author Information
Department of Botany, Christ College, Rajkot, India