![]() ![]() The taxonomic classification of algae is complex due to the number of existing varieties and the many applicable classification criteria. According to the current definition of algae, the blue-green variety is not considered algae, as they are prokaryotic organisms, and only eukaryotic organisms belong to this category (either unicellular, such as microalgae phytoplankton, or multicellular, such as macroalgae). More than 30,000 species of algae have been described, and their scientific study is called phycology. Photosynthesis probably began in some blue-green prokaryotic microorganisms that were formerly considered algae, and that currently belong to the Phylum Cyanobacteria, which is included in the Monera Kingdom. These are very peculiar living beings, to whom the development of life on our planet is due, since the algae were pioneers of photosynthesis, thanks to the evolution of chlorophyll function 3200 million years ago. Among them are algae which, although the vast majority inhabit salt water, can also survive in freshwater. The oceans contain and give life to approximately 500,000 species, which means that almost three quarters of all known species inhabit seawater. However, traces of our marine origins can also be found on earth, since there are similarities between the composition and some properties of the sea and those of biological fluids. These elements and many others, since all the elements of the periodic table are in the sea, have the advantage of being present in quantities that are generally stable and constant along the marine surface, contrary to what happens on earth. ![]() Since all the necessary elements for life are found in seawater, every form of life emerged from that immense original matrix. We live on a planet of which ~72% of the surface is water. The present review shows the results of a bibliographic survey on the chemical composition of macroalgae, together with a critical discussion about their potential as natural sources of new functional ingredients. Therefore, in this search, one of the main areas of research is the extraction and characterization of new natural ingredients with biological activity (e.g., prebiotic and antioxidant) that can contribute to consumers’ well-being. In this context, algae as food can be of help to maintain or even improve human health, and there is a growing interest in new products called functional foods, which can promote such a healthy state. Possible applications of algae are very diverse and include anti-biofilm activity, production of biofuels, bioremediation, as fertilizer, as fish feed, as food or food ingredients, in pharmacology (since they show antioxidant or contraceptive activities), in cosmeceutical formulation, and in such other applications as filters or for obtaining minerals. Algae are not only of high ecological value but also of great economic importance. Algae have undergone a boom in recent years, with consequent discoveries and advances in this field. ![]() This means that there is a large extension to obtain these photoautotrophic organisms. Two thirds of the world is covered by oceans, whose upper layer is inhabited by algae. ![]()
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