Algae are a group of photosyntheticPhotosynthesis is the biological process by which light energy, usually from the sun, is converted t organisms predominantly found in water. Species in this group can be multi- or unicellular and range in size from micro-meters to meters, like giant kelp. Due to their unique properties, algae have many uses in biotechnology. For example, some species of algae can accumulate large amounts of lipids, proteins, or organic compounds, making them a promising vehicle for manufacturing new products consisting of these molecules. Commercial algal derived products are currently limited, though they are used in things like skincare products (e.g. industrial thickeners), nutritional supplements (e.g. omega-3 oil), and in agriculture (e.g. biostimulants, biofertilizers).
