Mini review: The genus Gracilaria, its pests and defense

This mini review deals with selected aspects of the health and production of the red algal, agarophyte Gracilaria spp. Amongst common macroalgal diseases in the rhodophytes, “ice-ice” presents itself as perhaps the most common first appearing as an apical tip bleaching phenomenon. This phenomenon is widely studied and reported to be caused by defined bacteria. Regrading grazers, the consumers of Gracilaria are presented with resistance against attack. Finally, harmful epiphytes play a dominant role in Gracilaria production. The review provides information and guidance to aspects of various common pests of Gracilaria such as their attachment, damage caused, preferred conditions and various defense practices against their damaging impacts. Understanding and manipulating the red algal microbiome, under specific and varying cultivation conditions, will be a key factor in the holistic control of disease and pest management.