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Abstract

Seaweeds are divided into three categories: green, brown, and red. Each group of seaweeds consists of several families that have differences in composition. Even at the genus level, there are differences in some ingredients, although in general composition, they are nearly the same. Environmental conditions, availability of nutrients, and maturity stage are the main reasons for composition differences. This study aimed to determine approximate composition, mineral profile, protein quality and phytochemical properties of Melanothamnus somalensis & Gelidium omanense seaweeds. Both seaweeds are very abundant in Oman and seaweed Gelidium omanense is one of the unique seaweeds to Oman. Five organic solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, acetone, and methanol) were used sequentially to achieve extraction. The composition (i.e. moisture, protein, lipid, ash, and mineral), protein quality, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids content (TFC), total tannin content (TTC) were determined. There were significant variations detected in the chemical composition, TPC, TFC and TTC. Gelidium omanense showed high moisture content, lipid content and carbohydrates compared to Melanothamnus somalensis. However, Melanothamnus somalensis showed high ash and protein content compared to Gelidium omanense. Melanothamnus somalensis showed higher mineral content, especially sodium and potassium. Furthermore, Melanothamnus somalensis had higher TPC in all fractions except the hexane fraction. Except with hexane, TFC in the other solvents’ extracts was significantly different between Gelidium omanense and Melanothamnus somalensis. In all fractions, except dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions, there were no significant differences in TTC. Both seaweeds had high TPC, TFC and TTC when compared with other seaweeds because several solvents were used for extraction. Both seaweeds were deficient in one or more of the essential amino acids. In addition, all samples in this study were free of heavy metals so they could be used as food supplements for essential minerals and organic materials as recommended doses.

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