A new unprecedented seaweed farming project carried out in Puerto San Julián, Santa Cruz, is promoting marine conservation in Argentina.
This is the initiative of La Fundación Por el Mar, an entity that launched the country’s first experience of giant kelp farming, a type of seaweed.
This combines ecosystem protection with scientific research and productive development.
The initiative is supported by the State Secretariat of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Provincial Agrarian Council of Santa Cruz, as both organizations promoted this pioneering project of brown seaweed farming in Patagonian waters.
An unprecedented seaweed farming in Argentina
The NGO’s seaweed farming project specifically works with cachiyuyo or giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera).
This macroalga is especially relevant because it forms extensive underwater forests. These can reach between 40 and 70 meters in length, as under optimal conditions, the giant kelp grows up to 50 centimeters daily.
Therefore, the species is fundamental to protect the Patagonian marine ecosystem, as it provides shelter, food, and breeding areas for numerous species.
Jonathan Behm, responsible for the project’s marine infrastructure development, explained that the foundation promotes productive initiatives that prevent the deforestation of natural forests.
“My story is linked to a family dedicated to artisanal fishing, and we know that these forests are essential because they protect and sustain biodiversity,” he expressed.
The unexpected results of the project
The initial results of the seaweed farming exceeded initial projections. The first farm was installed in May and the seaweeds have already exceeded three and a half meters in length.
“We were seeing growth rates of 40 cm per week. It grows a lot, every time you go to the farm it’s different,” detailed Behm. The team began partially harvesting to measure the productive processes with greater precision.
It should be noted that the project is in a constant experimental stage, as it is the first experience of its kind in Argentina.
“We don’t have manuals on this, we don’t have papers or documents telling us this will grow so much in Argentina,” explained Behm.
There is experience in Puerto Montt, Chile, but conditions change. “It’s another sea, the Pacific, we are on the Atlantic, so there are different nutrients,” he clarified.
The scientific process and the educational projection of the project
The seaweed farming reproduces the plants by spores, similar to certain fungi. The process occurs in ponds where light and water are strictly controlled.
Biologist Milagros Schiebelbein leads the PEM laboratory and Hatchery, making her responsible for the project’s scientific control.
Thus, Behm develops the marine infrastructure along with volunteers who work pro bono.
The team plans to bring the acquired knowledge to schools and universities. The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation and the protection of the fauna of Puerto San Julián Bay.
Key aspects of the project:
- First farm installed in May with seaweeds of 3.5 meters
- Growth rates of 40 cm weekly
- Controlled reproduction by spores in laboratory
- Development of experimental marine infrastructure
- Biannual reports with detailed scientific data
Behm emphasized the importance of institutional support. “We prepare reports every six months detailing all the steps of the process, the studies carried out, the different variants that arise during the farm installation,” he stated.
“Without the support of the Fisheries Secretariat and the Agrarian Council, this project would not be possible,” he added.
La Fundación Por el Mar announced that in February it will carry out the first pilot harvest. This milestone represents a significant advancement for the development of sustainable productive alternatives on the Santa Cruz coast.
