The science and spirit of Seaweed (Book)

Related to the most ancient living organisms on earth, seaweeds are incredible and unique life forms, sharing qualities with both plants and animals, as well as fungi. They have been prized as a nutrient-dense food source for millennia and contain essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, protein and fibre as well as biologically active compounds not found anywhere else in nature. Seaweeds are also a source for innovations combating climate change due in part to their ability to absorb massive quantities of carbon dioxide.

Based in the Pacific Northwest, home to the greatest cold-water seaweed diversity in the world, Amanda Swinimer has made her living from the sustainable harvest of seaweeds for over two decades. In The Science and Spirit of Seaweed, Swinimer reflects on the journey that led to her successful seaweed harvesting business and provides identification information, ecologically sound harvesting techniques, traditional medicinal application and evidence-based health information for more than twenty varieties of seaweeds commonly found from California to Alaska. She also includes notes on culinary and skin-care uses for several types of seaweeds.

Complemented by vibrant underwater photography, beautiful illustrations and chef-inspired recipes, this volume richly conveys the benefits and wonder of living in harmony with the ocean. It will be a welcome resource to beachcombers, foragers and anyone fascinated by the marvels of the natural world.

• Harbour Publishing
• ISBN: 9781550179613
• Paperback / softback
• 8 in x 10 in - 256 pp
• Publication Date: 23/10/2021

Importance of Books and Field Guides for all (Especially Harvesters and Spearfishers):

Having local species knowledge of the creatures within the waters we explore and an understanding of the local environments we visit allows us a greater experience beneath the surface. Be it for freediving, snorkelling, spearfishing or scuba diving reasons, anyone can benefit from the knowledge in these books and field guides in supporting the enjoyment of your next underwater adventure.

As Freedive-Harvesters and Spearfishers it's important to remember the importance and power that knowledge gives you. Knowing your target species. Knowing how to differentiate species. Understanding species life cycles and the relationships they have with the environments in which they live. All of these pieces of information are the base and foundation of the knowledge a true Sustainable and Ethical Harvester possesses.