Collections of Gracilaria materials were made from these sites. Additional materials for taxonomic and agar quality analysis were supplied by a private seaweed company operating in the area. Preliminary taxonomic examination was done on the materials. Seven species of Gracilaria were recognized. These are: G. changii (= G. cylindrica), G. fastigiata, G. firma, G. nalicornia, G. teniustipitata, G. euchemoides and G. coronopifolia. Detailed taxonomic examination is necessary to verify the identities of the species. More detailed collections will probably result to the discovery of more species.
Several samples of Gracilaria species from Sorsogon are presently being analyzed by Dr. Montano. Results are not yet available.
There are presently seaweed production activities in the project site. Eucheuma gelatinae, Kappaphycus alvarezii, K. cottonii, Gracilaria teniustipitata, G. firma, G. changii, G. fastigiata, G. eucheumoides and several other non-agar and non-carrageenan species are presently being produced through the gathering of natural stocks and farming. K. alvarezii is presently being farmed in commercial quantities in Sorsogon and neighboring provinces, while trial cultures of G. changii, G. fastigiata and G. teniustipitata has only started.
Observations made during the fishermen orientation seminar and consultation forum with local government officials showed the general interest and positive response of these two sectors to the Project and is shown by their desire to be directly involved in activities of the project. Their offer/participation in the setting up of trial cultures plots of Gracilaria is clear indication of their interest in the economic potentials of the Gracilaria project.
