On many tropical seashores, green, jelly-filled bubbles can be found. They are either single bubbles or club-shaped bubbles originating from a single center point. In case they are single bubbles, it is a seaweed called Valonia ventricosa, the ‘Bubble algae’, or ‘Seaman’s eye’. However, if the bubbles are part of a communal structure, they are the ‘Bubble Green Seaweed’ (Boergesenia forbesii), commonly known as ‘Jelly fingers’. In this article, we talk about the communally structured plant, Boergesenia forbesii.
Characteristic and distribution
The Bubble green seaweed is an alga in the family Siphonocladaceae, known for its bright green, tubular, and inflated thalli (‘fingers’). It typically grows circumtropical in shallow marine environments, attaching to rocks or substrates. This species is notable for its simple morphology and large cell structure. Every thallus represents only one single cell!
Cell structure of bubble green seaweed thalli
The cell structure of these mega-cells can be characterized by a single nucleolus within the cell and numerous nuclei scattered in the cytoplasm. Additionally, chloroplasts are suspended within the cytoplasm for photosynthesis, and the cell wall provides both structure and protection. There are no cross-walls within this organism. This structure allows for rapid growth and efficient nutrient transport within the elongated tubular cell.
Uses of bubble green seaweed
The conspicuous appearance of bubble green seaweeds stands in stark contrast to their actual uses. There is currently no specific use of this green algae. However, we would like to explore possible applications in the following areas.
Health industry
Studies, like this one, health applications. And its rapid protoplast formation and cellulose synthesis after wounding could inspire new biomaterials for tissue regeneration or wound-healing applications.
Bio-Technological studies
Its coenocytic structure (a single cell containing multiple nuclei) makes it a candidate for studying cell division and membrane exchange dynamics. For these studies, however, Valona ventricosa bubble algae – their close relative – are already well established.
Another field of application in this area would be an in-depth study of their poly-lamellate cell walls, which could be explored for bio-based materials, such as biodegradable films or nanofiber product applications.
Food and nutrition
Generally speaking, Boergesenia forbesii is considered edible. It has a high water content of 75-80%, and can be boiled or stir-fried for soups, salads, and side dishes. B. forbesii is known to have a mild, salty taste and a crunchy texture when cooked. However, due to the tough cell walls and gooey cytoplasm inside, no human culture is known worldwide that uses the bubble green seaweed as a regular food source. If eaten, its amino acids, fatty acids, and dietary fiber would provide nutritional benefits.
Lessons learned about Bubble green seaweed:
- Bubble green seaweed stands out from all other seaweeds on tropical coastlines.
- Each thallus is just one single cell with many nuclei inside.
- Currently, the uses of this green algae are constricted, but they could be used for health and the biotechnology industry in the future.
- Bubble green seaweed is edible, but currently not used as a regular food source by any human culture worldwide.
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