Laminaria

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Laminaria

Laminaria (/læmɪˈnɛəriə/; from the Latin lāmīna, meaning "thin plate" and the suffix -aria, meaning "pertaining to") is a genus of 31 species of brown algae commonly called "kelp". Some species are also referred to as tangle. This economically important genus is characterized by long, leathery laminae and relatively large size.

Description

Laminaria species have a two-stage life cycle and grow to a considerable size. The larger, long-lived, diploid phase is known as the sporophyte, which can grow up to several meters long. The haploid phase is known as the gametophyte, which is microscopic in size.

Uses

Laminaria is used in medicine, food, and industrial applications. In medicine, thin strips of Laminaria are used in the process of dilation and curettage and for inducing labor in pregnant women. The high iodine content in Laminaria makes it useful in the production of iodine supplements. In the food industry, Laminaria is used as a flavor enhancer and a source of dietary fiber.

See also

References

External links

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