Over Profitable Non-Natives
The West Indian Ocean (WIO) region holds immense untapped potential for sustainable aquaculture. With less than 1% of its waters farmed for aquaculture or mariculture, the temptation to introduce high-value, non-native seaweed species like Eucheuma denticulatum and Kappaphycus alvarezii - which dominate global markets - seems economically compelling. Yet, at WioAlgae, we are taking a different path - one that prioritizes ecological integrity, long-term commercial viability, and the upliftment of coastal communities.
The Hidden Costs of Non-Native Monoculture
Rather than chase short-term gains, WioAlgae is pioneering a new model: a no-feed Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) Franchise that cultivates native species such as Sargassum spp., Ulva spp., and Turbinaria ornata. By integrating these native seaweeds with shellfish, oysters, and sea cucumbers, our system is designed to be ecologically restorative and commercially profitable.
Higher Revenue per Hectare
Compared to monoculture farming of non-native seaweed, the IMTA system produces 3x–8x higher revenue per hectare. IMTA (Sargassum + Ulva + Shellfish + Sea Cucumbers): Revenue potential of $435,000 – $655,000 per hectare. Kappaphycus Monoculture: Revenue of $75,000 – $150,000 per hectare, with high ecological risks.
Restoring Ocean Health
Native species serve a dual purpose: they contribute to ecosystem restoration while generating income. Our farms: Sequester and store carbon, reducing ocean acidification. Remove nitrogen and phosphorus from coastal waters, reversing eutrophication. Provide habitat and breeding grounds for fish, rejuvenating overfished waters..
Empowering Coastal Communities
The WIO region’s coastal communities are among the hardest hit by climate change and dwindling fish stocks. By developing a decentralized franchise model, WioAlgae ensures that economic benefits are distributed equitably. 507,000 franchise farms across the region by 2035, creating millions of jobs. 50% of franchise owners will be women, promoting gender equity in the blue economy. Small-scale farmers gain access to affordable, high-quality biostimulants from native seaweed, enhancing food security on land.
A Vision for the Future
WioAlgae is proving that ecological sustainability and economic success are not mutually exclusive. By rejecting short-sighted monoculture practices and embracing the resilience of native species, we are building a scalable, ocean-friendly industry that benefits people and the planet alike. This is not just a seaweed farm. This is a movement to restore our oceans, create sustainable livelihoods, and build a climate-resilient future—one hectare at a time.
WioAlgae: is Farming the Future, TODAY.
