Growth performance of seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii in different planting distance using long-line farming, Mandar Bay, West Sulawesi Indonesia

The present study aimed to determine different planting distances on the growth of Kappaphycus Alvarez using the longline method. The present study was conducted from September to October 2018 in Mandar Bay, West Sulawesi. Water quality measurement was performed in situ during the study period, including temperature, salinity, pH, turbidity, and water current and data collected on the specific and absolute growth of seaweed. Prior to study, buoys, rope, length measurement device, and anchor were prepared for seaweed cultivation. The long-line method was applied for seaweed cultivation, and the seed of Seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii obtained from local seaweed farmers. A total of 10 stretches rope using different planting distance of 15 cm (P1), 30 cm (P2), 45 cm (P3), and 60 cm (P4). The cultivation was carried out for 5 weeks. The results showed that the highest specific growth rate and absolute growth were obtained from P3 in which the absolute growth reached 165 gr, and the specific growth rate was 0.14%, respectively. This finding suggested that different planting distance affects the growth of seaweed. In addition, the environmental parameters for seaweed cultivation were still considered in optimum condition for cultivation.