Question

In biotechnological studies, the alga that is exploited as a rich source of protein is
A. Spirogyra
B. Spirulina
C. Chlamydomonas
D. Scytonema

Answer 1

Hint: Seaweed and micro-algae are considered to be a viable source of protein. A few species of seaweed and microalgae contain protein levels which are similar to the levels of traditional protein sources like meat, egg, soybean and milk.

Complete solution:
Spirulina is a biomass of cyanobacteria or blue-green algae which are edible for humans and animals. The three species are namely; Arthrospira platensis, A. fusiformis, and A. maxima. Dried Spirulinahas protein (51–71%), 5% water, 24% carbohydrates, and 8% fat. It is considered a rich source of proteins, vitamin B complex and minerals. Its protein level is higher than any natural food source. It typically consists of 55-77% protein of its dry weight. The protein obtained from Spirulina is easily digestible. It is more suited to the human digestive system than the traditional animal protein, so it is used as a rich source of protein and has many applications such as powdered Spirulina is used in herbal tonics. These species are cultivated globally. Arthrospira sp. is often used as a dietary supplement or even complete food. It is used in aquaculture, aquarium, and poultry industries as a feed supplement. Spirulina is a coil-shaped filamentous blue-green alga or cyanobacterium. It is generally grown commercially for food and feed.
So, the correct answer is B.

Note: In dried powdered form, a 100-g amount of Spirulina contains 290 kilocalories (1,200 kJ). It is a rich source of numerous essential nutrients, especially protein, B vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin and niacin providing 207%, 306%, and 85% DV, respectively. It also provides dietary minerals, such as iron and manganese. Spirulina does not contain vitamin B12 naturally, and its supplements are not a reliable source of vitamin B12. They predominantly have pseudo vitamin B12 which is biologically inactive in humans.