Optimal Conditions for the Post-Harvest Storage of Rhizoids of the Brown Seaweed Undaria pinnatifida (Phaeophyta) for Arachidonic Acid Production

Abstract

The non-utilized biomass of the aquacultured seaweed Undaria pinnatifida, particularly the rhizoid, is an alternative source of arachidonic acid (AA). Of the five aquacultured kelps that were tested, U. pinnatifida yielded the highest amount of AA, which was isolated from the rhizoids. Its identity (C20:4 n-6) was confirmed from gas chromatography-mass spectrometry spectral data. The optimal conditions for post-harvest storage or pretreatment of the rhizoids in Provasoli's enriched seawater for AA extraction were determined to be pH 7.8, 2% CO 2 -enriched air, 20 μmol m -2 s -1 light, and 10°C. Under these conditions, the AA content after 1 day of storage was enhanced by up to 127%. In the absence of light under ambient aeration, the AA content after 1 day of storage diminished to 90%. Rhizoids collected late in the season (April and May) contained the highest amounts of AA (approximately 2.5 mg/g tissue).