A potential research and development (R&D) initiative on “gamet,” (Porphyra sp.), a seaweed species found in the town of Burgos, is being sought.
This R&D interest is based on the need to establish an outdoor hatchery to grow spores of the said species as observed by Professor Andres Y. Tungpalan of the Mariano Marcos State University-College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (MMSU-CASAT).
Professor Tungpalan shared the researchable aspect of growing gamet in hatchery. He expressed the need to establish an outdoor hatchery adjacent to the shoreline to grow spores of Porphyra sp. for sustainable gamet production year round.
Professor Tungpalan expressed this research and development initiative during a visit by the Marine Resources Research Division (MRRD) of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) to MMSU-CASAT.
Gamet is economically valued due to its high market demand locally and internationally. Similar to the Japanese sushi wrappers or “nori,” gamet contains high percentage of protein, iodine, and vitamins A, B, and C, according to museoilocosnorte.com.
This type of seaweed grows abundantly in the intertidal zone on sharp pointed rocks in the shore, which is hit by big waves during cold season. Although gamet harvesting is risky because of the waves, it offers a good livelihood to fisherfolk aside from fishing.
MRRD-PCAARRD, led by its Director Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera, also explored the existing facilities of MMSU-CASAT in Currimao, Ilocos Norte. The team also conducted a year-end planning workshop in Burgos, Ilocos Norte