The Role of Molecular Marker Technology in Advancing Eucheumatoid Research

The ability of molecular markers to detect genetic variations between organisms has led to the advancement in DNA barcoding, biodiagnostics, molecular systematics, forensics, molecular breeding, genetic modification, etc. However, the utility and prospects of molecular markers are still relatively new to seaweeds such as the commercially important eucheumatoids of Kappaphycus and Eucheuma. The present study summarizes how molecular marker technology has improved several areas of eucheumatoid research, i.e., molecular identification, systematics, genetic diversity, and bioinvasion detection. The use of molecular markers in strain selection, breeding, and conservation is also vital to improve the resilience of the eucheumatoid industry in light of pests and diseases, aging cultivars, and climate change.