SQU Achieves First Commercial Production of Spirulina Algae

SQU Research Project Achieves Commercial Production of Spirulina Algae

Muscat: Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has achieved a new scientific milestone by successfully producing spirulina algae in commercial quantities for the first time, marking a significant step forward in applied scientific research and sustainable food production in the Sultanate of Oman.

The achievement reflects the advancement of research and innovation efforts aimed at supporting national priorities related to a knowledge-based and sustainable economy. The project was implemented by a research team from Sultan Qaboos University in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, with funding support from the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Fund (AFDF).

The project focuses on importing and cultivating spirulina strains that are better adapted to the Sultanate of Oman’s climatic conditions and characterized by higher productivity. These strains were studied for their nutritional composition, particularly protein content, to identify varieties with optimal economic feasibility. The project also included the formulation and manufacture of animal and fish feeds fortified with spirulina, which were tested in accordance with approved scientific standards.

The research project, supervised by Dr. Hafez bin Ali Al Mahrouqi, Supervisor of the Algae Unit at the Agricultural Experiment Station of Sultan Qaboos University, received a grant of RO 80,000 from the AFDF. This support underscores the role of Sultan Qaboos University in transforming scientific research into applied projects with tangible economic and developmental impact, while contributing to sustainability and food security goals in line with Oman Vision 2040.

Spirulina is among the most widely cultivated microalgae globally due to its high nutritional value, containing between 60 and 65 percent protein, making it an important dietary supplement for humans and animals alike. Its commercial production is expected to support the growth of the aquaculture and livestock sectors in the Sultanate.

This type of algae is distinguished by its ability to adapt to local environmental conditions and grow in saline water with salinity levels comparable to seawater, opening promising prospects for utilizing saline lands affected by seawater intrusion and areas adjacent to the Arabian Sea that are unsuitable for conventional agriculture.