A concise review of the genus Asperococcus (Phaeophyceae: Chordariaceae)

Abstract

Asperococcus J.V. Lamouroux is a genus of brown algae in the Chordariaceae family (Order Ectocarpales). This concise review compiles the published literature on Asperococcus taxonomy, morphology, geographical distribution, ecology, life cycles, cultivation, biochemical composition and bioactive properties, emphasizing its commercial potential. This genus, which is mainly distributed in temperate-cold latitudes, is represented by six species of which A. fistulosus, A. ensiformis and A. bullosus have been the most studied. Species of this genus have membranous saccate or filiform thalli with prominent sori protruding from the surface. The life cycle is heteromorphic, alternating between a macroscopic sporophyte and a microscopic branched gametophyte. They inhabit tidal pools or different depths in the subtidal zone. Some species have been reported as epiphytic and epizoic organisms. Although there is no record of the commercialization of Asperococcus species, the cultivation of A. ensiformis from the Argentine Patagonian coasts was recently assessed and the biochemical composition of some species was studied, revealing a commercial potential.