Seasonal Changes Effect on Yield and Quality of Carrageenan from the Marine Alga Hypnea musciformis in Syrian Water

Seasonal changes effect on yield and quality of carrageenan from the Syrian marine alga Hypnea musciformis were studied during 1 year. The carrageenan yield varied from 31 to 46%. The maximum yield was recorded between April and September, while low carrageenant content was recorded in December. The gel strength of carrageenan was maximum in September (260 g/cm²) and minimum in March (90 g/cm²). The viscosity ranged from 22 to 44cP with a peak recorded in September. Seasonal variations were not observed in the gelling (42-50 C°) and melting (60-70 C°) temperatures of carrageenan. The results indicate that Hypnea musciformis can be considered a good sources for production of commercial carrageenan in future.