*This conference is supported by The Croucher Foundation Limited.

Algae, also referred to phytoplankton or planktonic algae, are photosynthetic organisms usually found in both freshwater and marine environments. They serve as primary producers in aquatic food webs and are the irreplaceable foundation in many ecological systems. Algae are food of filter-feeding bivalve shellfish such as oysters, mussels and clams, as well as the larvae of commercially important crustaceans and finfish. Some algae even have long history served as human food source. They can also be applied in pollution control including wastewater treatment and carbon sequestration. In recent years, algae are re-defined as a sustainable resource for a wide range of applications such as biofuel, soil modifier, colourant, oil and protein food sources and supplements. Today, algae and their related products is one of the fast-growing markets of global economy. However, not all algae are beneficial to us. Some algal species are responsible for causing harmful algal blooms (HABs; formerly red tide) that can cause massive contamination and even death of aquatic lives leading to substantial economic losses in fishery industry in Hong Kong and other parts of the world. Studies on HABs for establishing effective control and management policy are necessary to sustain fishery industry and safeguard human health.

In this regards, the conference is called to provide a platform for experts, scientists, practitioners and research students from governmental authorities, institutions, universities, algae industry and fishery industry in Hong Kong, Mainland China, South-East Asia and overseas to exchange views on issues related to research, applications and management of algae.

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