Proteomics in Seaweeds: Ecological Interpretations

Macro and micro-algae are fundamental components of coastal benthic ecosystems and are responsible for a large part of the coastal primary production (Lobban & Harrison, 1994).Adverse effects on these groups caused by natural or anthropogenic phenomena, can affect directly or indirectly organisms of higher trophic levels and the integrity of entire ecosystems.In this context, both the ecological and economic importance of many algal species justifies the need to expand our knowledge on the molecular biology of these organisms.The distribution and abundance of algal species occurring in the marine zone results from the interplay of biotic (i.e.competition and herbivore pressure) and abiotic (i.e.tolerance to extreme and fluctuating environments) factors (