18 Nature Notes Lots to enjoy in the Great Outdoors
SUPER SEAWEED! Both slippery and slimey, seaweed might not look or sound as attractive as flowers, butterflies or birds but seaweed is not only a key part of the marine environment but it also has many uses in the modern world. As well as providing food, home and protection for sea animals seaweed is used in cosmetics, medicines and is commonly known as a superfood – which is more nutritionally potent than any land vegetable.
Did you know?
●It is estimated that there are over 10,000 species of seaweed. These are classified into 3 major groups: brown, green and red algae (often used for nori in sushi rolls).
●Seaweeds are not plants but belong to a group of organisms known as marine algae. They have no roots but instead cling to rocks.
● UK coasts and shallow seas are nicknamed a “goldilocks” zone for seaweeds. It is neither too hot or too cold for them with over 650 species living and thriving around our shores.
● According to The Marine Stewardship Council 1 million tonnes of wild seaweed are harvested
The many uses of seaweed
● A highly nutritious food/flavouring - sea spaghetti, sea salad and seaweed salt – adding some flavour and vital vitamins.
● Compostable and marine-safe sustainable packaging
● Powerful garden fertiliser
www.cornishseaweed.co.uk
● Medicinal supplement for humans (eg spirulina – blue/green algae) and animals with a high content of calcium, fibre, protein, iron and iodine. These nutrients can be readily absorbed in their natural form.
● Thickening/ stabilising agent, vegetarian alternative to gelatine (Carageenan/Sodium alginate) or as a natural food colouring (Spirulina).
● Seaweeds such as kelp are used in toiletries for their super high mineral content and natural cleansing and moisturising effects leaving no pollutants in the water.
● The future of sustainable jet fuel!
Understanding more about seaweeds is critical to protecting our marine environment. Take part in this survey and help us monitor the effects of environmental change on British seashores. Visit the website
bigseaweedsearch.org to find out more information and to download your survey pack.
Want to make
your own seaweed smoothie, jelly or lip balm? Visit the
devonwildlifetrust.org to find out how!
spirulina
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