Sargassum studies in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, northern Philippines II. Seasonal variations in alginate yield and viscosity of Sargassum carpophyllum J. Agardh, Sargassum ilicifolium (Turner) C. Agardh and Sargassum siliquosumJ. Agardh (Phaeophyta, Sargassaceae)

The yield (%) and viscosity (cps) of alginate from Sargassum carpophyllum, S. ilicifolium and S. siliquosum collected along the inter- and subtidal zo nes of Currimao, Ilocos Norte were determined monthly for a period of one y ear. Results show that each species demonstrated an individual pattern of a lginate characteristics which is significantly influenced by the collecting zone, fertility state, and collecting month (P < 0.05). Positive correlati ons were observed in alginate yield and viscosity with species and fertilit y states. Among the three species, S, ilicifolium is the best species for a lginate production for the food industry based on viscosity characteristics , followed by S. siliquosum and S. carpophyllum.