Recently, the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography successfully tested the cultivation of sea grapes – a species that not only has export value but also the potential to improve marine environments.
The trial cultivation of sea grapes was conducted in a laboratory with the goal of discovering a new strain of seaweed for fishermen to choose from, adding to the aquaculture portfolio. Sea grapes are a plant rich in nutrients, capable of replacing traditional vegetable sources, and are increasingly favored in markets across various countries. Results from the six-month trial indicate that the growth rate of sea grapes meets expectations.
According to a recent survey by the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography, most seaweed and seagrass species in the waters of Vietnam have experienced a severe decline in both abundance and quality. This decline is primarily due to the destructive harvesting practices of coastal communities. Alongside the trial cultivation of sea grapes, the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography is also implementing a project to restore a 50-hectare seagrass meadow in the Cam Ranh area. If high-quality seagrass or seaweed beds can be established, the marine environment in Central Vietnam will see significant improvements.
