Blackfordia virginica in Non-Native Distribution Range: A Potential Food Source for Humans?

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The seasonal occurrence of the Black Sea jellyfish Blackfordia virginica Mayer, 1910 blooms is a reason of concern in the Guadiana estuary in the South of Portugal (South-West Europe), causing considerable economic and ecological impacts to fisheries. Due to jellyfish biochemical properties, they may represent an opportunity as an alternative food source for humans. In this context, this work evaluated the nutritional profile of B. virginica (proximate composition, amino acids, minerals, and fatty acids methyl ester content). Blackfordia virginica biomass may be adequate for human consumption, as it has nutritional properties resembling other edible jellyfish species, with relevant levels of minerals, moderate content in crude protein, low-fat content, and a low energetic value. The high Cd levels in the biomass of B. virginica from the Guadiana Estuary may compromise its safety as a food source. Moreover, if these jellyfishes are proven as an edible invasive species, their management through fisheries should evaluate the cost effectiveness of investments.

Source: Diversity

DOI: 10.3390/d16120729

Authors: Mariana Cruz, Ester Dias, Luísa Custódio, João Encarnação, Joana Cruz, Vânia Baptista, Maria Alexandra Teodósio

Institutions: University of Algarve, Universidade do Porto, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Laboratorio Colaborativo Sustainable and Smart Aquaculture

Language: English

Topic: Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology

Subfield: Paleontology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,955

Funders: European Commission, HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme, Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Interreg

OpenAlex ID: W4404821332