Fig. 5.1 shows the seaweed Laminaria hyperborea. This is a photosynthetic protoctist found in the coastal waters around Norway. The seaweed is grown commercially to obtain the glucose polysaccharide called alginate. This is used in certain food products. [Figure 5.1] An increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere has resulted in higher concentrations of carbon dioxide in the ocean. This has caused a decrease in the pH of the ocean and has resulted in ocean acidification. Scientists are studying seaweeds such as L. hyperborea because they absorb a large quantity of carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. This may help to increase the pH of the ocean and reverse ocean acidification.