Scientists discover marine algae genome

Scientists at the Virginia Bioinformatics Institute have created a draft genome of a marine algae sequence which will help scientists across the US to discover the best algae species for biodiesel production.

The researchers say that algae is a more beneficial feedstock for biodiesel production than corn or soyabeans because it can use numerous water sources, from wastewater to brackish water, and can also be cultivated on small, intensive plots on denuded land.

The genome, which has been given the name nannochloropis gaditana, should be able to produce the lipid yields needed for a viable biodiesel fuel source.

‘Getting the data is now the easy part. What we’re doing in the DAC is enabling researchers to move beyond informatics issues of assembly and analysis to regain their focus on the biological implications of their research,’ says scientist Robert Settlage.

Analysis undertaken by the researchers has shown that with another easy genetic modification, the genome should be able to produce biofuel on an industrial scale.