Abstract

Algae of the genus Ulva are notable for their broad geographical distribution, largely due to their tolerance to a wide range of environmental conditions. Understanding their global distribution can help identify regions suitable for environmental restoration efforts, the development of cultivation zones, and the optimization of sustainable practices aimed at harnessing this underutilized resource. On the other hand, Ulva morphological differences are used to predict productivity and other attributes that can lead to variable ecological performance and niche differentiation. However, the growth and accumulation of Ulva can cause anoxic decomposition and the release of toxic gaseous compounds that are a risk to human health and negatively influence economic activities in coastal areas. Likewise, the Ulva biomass that forms blooms contains higher levels of proteins and pigments, and lower starch content compared to biomass from commercial or wild cultivation. This makes it a sustainable resource with strong potential for the production of food, feed, bioactive compounds, and biofuels within a biorefinery framework, offering significant economic viability for industrial applications worldwide. Another alternative application for both Ulva and their fractions with biological activities is the biomedical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic field. Promoting its industrial-scale application for biocomposite development would facilitate the management of Ulva blooms, while also offering opportunities to generate income for local economies.