Metal bioaccumulation potential of the seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii

Abstract Kappaphycus alvarezii is one of the two main species seaweed commodities cultivated in Indonesia. K. more popularly known as Eucheuma cottonii , belongs to red algae. This most important commercial sources carrageenans, a family gel-forming, viscosifying polysaccharides. Carrageenans are used gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agents variety applications, especially food products such frozen desserts, chocolate milk, cottage cheese, whipped cream, instant products, yoghurt, jellies, pet foods, sauces. Aside from these functions, carrageenans pharmaceutical formulations, cosmetics, industrial applications mining. study aimed analyse metal bioaccumulation potential . was conducted three sea areas around South Sulawesi, namely Gulf Bone, Flores Sea Makassar Strait. Seaweed samples were collected cultivation locations four (Regency Jeneponto locations, Takalar Pangkep). The concentrations analysed Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb). concentration Cu, Cd, Pb higher than ambient water. has bioaccumulator, but accumulation not consistent. probably can be accumulated or released back. good terms safety because heavy metals during post-harvest processing carrageenan powder processing. results this indicate that for bioaccumulation, permanent accumulation, so it safe human health.