TAU researchers conduct Israel’s first ecological–biotechnological seaweed survey, revealing a natural hotspot of resilient, nutrient-rich species.

A team of researchers from Tel Aviv University and the Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research Institute (IOLR) has conducted the first comprehensive ecological–biotechnological seaweed survey in Israel. Their findings suggest that the unique ecological conditions along the Israeli Mediterranean coast—warm, sunny, and dynamic—create a natural habitat that supports the growth of distinctive and resilient seaweeds (macroalgae) rich in nutritional and health-promoting compounds. The researchers believe these properties could serve as a foundation for groundbreaking innovations in food, health, and biotechnology.

Tel Aviv University researchers have completed Israel’s first ecological–biotechnological seaweed survey, uncovering a natural “green treasure” growing along the country’s Mediterranean coast. Their findings reveal that the region’s warm, sunny, and dynamic conditions nurture exceptional seaweeds rich in nutritional, medicinal, and biotechnological potential — from sustainable superfoods to eco-friendly cosmetics and pharmaceutical innovations.

Mapping Israel’s Underwater Laboratory

The pioneering study, led by Dr. Doron Yehoshua Ashkenazi of Tel Aviv University and the Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research Institute (IOLR), was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Avigdor Abelson from TAU’s School of Zoology and Prof. Álvaro Israel from IOLR Haifa, in collaboration with Dr. Eitan Salomon of the National Center for Mariculture in Eilat.
Additional contributors included Prof. Félix L. Figueroa and Dr. Julia Vega of the University of Málaga, Spain, Guy Paz, head of the laboratory at IOLR, and Dr. Shoshana Ben-Valid. The study was published in Marine Drugs.

Over several years, the researchers collected nearly 400 specimens, identifying 55 seaweed species—predominantly red, alongside brown and green seaweeds. In contrast to earlier reports suggesting two annual peaks in seaweed productivity, this study indicates a single productive period in springtime, strongly suggesting an ecosystem shift likely driven by global warming.

A New Source of Sustainable Nutrition

Seasonal analysis revealed dramatic biochemical differences. During winter, local seaweeds reached exceptionally high protein levels — several tens of percent of their dry weight — making them a promising alternative protein source for both human and animal consumption.
In spring, antioxidant compounds surged by nearly 300% in some species, positioning these seaweeds as a potent source of health-promoting and anti-aging compounds.
High concentrations of phenolic compounds and natural UV filters also highlight their potential for eco-friendly cosmetics and therapeutic uses.

Nature’s Own Biotech Factory

“Israel, located at the easternmost edge of the Mediterranean Sea, offers unique environmental conditions,” Dr. Doron Ashkenazi explains. “a subtropical climate with year-round sunlight, rocky shores with small tidal fluctuations, and relatively high salinity and irradiance. Together, these factors stimulate the development of seaweeds with unique chemical traits that act as natural ‘biological factories,’ producing bioactive compounds in remarkable concentrations.”

He adds: “We believe that this study, together with the growing seaweed research field, can place Israel at the forefront of global marine biotechnology. In addition to being ‘a land flowing with milk and honey,’ Israel has also been blessed with a unique and life-giving sea — the Israeli Mediterranean.”

From Ecology to Economy

Prof. Álvaro Israel emphasizes:  “This study provides valuable insights into the environmental factors that influence seaweed growth and quality, allowing us to translate this knowledge into practical aquaculture methods. Seaweed offers immense environmental benefits—they require no arable land, generate oxygen, capture carbon, and purify water from pollutants. They stand at the forefront of sustainable aquaculture, merging environmental advantages with economic opportunities.

Dr. Eitan Salomon adds: “Our findings illustrate the untapped biotechnological potential of seaweeds for the future of humanity – from functional foods and pharmaceuticals to a variety of advanced health applications.”

A Model for Climate Resilience

Prof. Avigdor Abelson concludes: “The Israeli Mediterranean Sea is a unique natural laboratory. It can serve as a model for understanding the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and help predict which species may thrive in a warming world. Beyond its scientific value, seaweeds represent a strategic national and global resource that can help address future challenges in food security, health, and the environment.”