Research works oti various aspects of seaweeds have been
caried out since last five decades. They inchide resources survey,
studies on distribution, Uixonomy, ecology, biology, phycocolioids,
biochemicals, culture and utilisation of marine algae growing in
Tamil Nadu, Kercda, Lakshadwe^p and Andaman-Nicobar Islands.
Information was also gathered since 1978 on the quantity of
seaweeds commercially exploited from the natural seaweed beds
occurring in Tamil Nadu coast. The results obtained on these aspects
are reviewed in this paper. The prospects of seaweed research,
industry and utilisation in India are also briefly described
