Agarophyte

An agarophyte is a seaweed, typically a Red alga, producing the hydrocolloid agar as part of the makeup of their cell wall. This agar can be harvested commercially for use in biological experiments and culturing. In some countries (especially in the developing world) the harvesting of agarophytes, either as natural stocks or a cultivated crop, is of considerable economic importance. Notable genera of commercially exploited agarophytes include Gracilaria and Gelidium.