Agarophyte

An agarophyte is a seaweed, typically a red alga, that produces the hydrocolloid agar in its cell walls.^[1] This agar can be harvested commercially for use in biological experiments and culturing. In some countries (especially in the developing world), the harvesting of agarophytes, either as natural stocks or a cultivated crop, is of considerable economic importance. Notable genera of commercially exploited agarophytes include Gracilaria and Gelidium.

References

1. ↑ Williams, Peter W.; Phillips, Glyn O. (2000). Handbook of hydrocolloids. Cambridge: Woodhead. ISBN 1-85573-501-6.