Kappaphycus vs Ascophyllum vs Sargassum: which seaweed extract?
How the three main seaweeds used in biostimulants differ, what grades like Kappaphycus alvarezii 24 (liquid) mean, and how to choose.
Side by side
| Ascophyllum nodosum | Kappaphycus alvarezii | Sargassum | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Brown seaweed | Red seaweed | Brown seaweed |
| Where it grows | Cold North Atlantic coasts | Farmed in tropical waters, including India's south-east coast | Tropical and warm coasts, including India |
| Our grades | 15% and 7% liquid | 24%, 9.5% and 7.2% liquid | S. tenerrimum 10% liquid and 2% granular |
| Commonly chosen for | Stress and quality programmes, export markets | Field crops and cost-effective Indian programmes | Liquid and granular soil programmes |
What the grade names mean
Names such as "Kappaphycus alvarezii 24 (liquid)" or "Ascophyllum nodosum 15 (liquid)" are grade entries as specified under Schedule VI of India's Fertiliser Control Order: species, extract percentage and form. Buy the exact listed grade.
How to choose
- Start from the crop stage and problem
- Compare cost per acre at the label dose, not cost per litre
- For export, check which species your market expects
- Consider blends such as Kappaphycus + Sargassum (1:1)
Frequently asked questions
Which seaweed extract is best?
There is no single best. Ascophyllum is the most studied worldwide; Kappaphycus is widely used in Indian field crops; Sargassum suits liquid and granular soil use. Choose by crop, purpose and market.
What is Kappaphycus alvarezii used for in agriculture?
Its extract is used as a biostimulant in foliar and drip programmes for field and horticultural crops.
What is the common name of Kappaphycus alvarezii?
It is a red seaweed often called elkhorn sea moss; its sap is sometimes called K-sap in India.
What does Ascophyllum nodosum 15 (liquid) mean?
It is a Schedule VI grade: Ascophyllum nodosum extract at 15% in liquid form.
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