Whole genome analysis for functional genomics in Eucheuma denticulatum and Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed species along the coastline of south coast, Kwale county Kenya

Macroalgae (marine seaweeds) contribute significantly to ecological protection, human economic utility, and the prospects for biotechnological applications of the aforementioned ecosystem are significant, regardless of their endless ecological, health and biodiversity benefits and contribution, their genetic and functional diversity remains underexplored. Marine seaweeds possess a wide range of bioactive compounds, exhibits morphological and physiological adaptations that enable them to thrive in diverse marine environments. The first incitation is understanding the genomic underpinnings of these adaptations that provide insights into their resilience against climate change, pollution and harsh environment. The advancement in technology and ability to use them to generate precise, accurate and quality data presents an opportunity to explore and fill the existing knowledge gaps regarding the functional genomics, genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among marine seaweed species, as well as studying the beneficial genes relevant for their survival and thriving in harsh environments.

The incitation is that, functional genomics approaches made exploring the various functions of the genes related to basic traits which include but not limited to growth rates, stress responses, and production of secondary metabolite a reality. For the development of sustainable harvesting practices and enhancing the cultivation of economically valuable seaweed species, functional genomics offers a crucial insight. Genetic data provides information on the over-explored resources as well as solving habitat degradation. The study conducted a whole-genome analysis of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Eucheuma denticulatum seaweed species along the coastal region of Kwale County, Kenya. The research focused on examining and unraveling the species’ genome assembly, genetic diversity and functional genomics as well employing comparative genomic approaches. Findings were not limited to the identification of bioactive compounds with potential pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications, along with insights into the genetic health of marine ecosystems.