The exciting discoveries of modern biotechnology are an extension of practices that are thousands of years old, such as using yeast in bread making and fermentation in wine production. Within the general field of biotechnology as an applied science that seeks to enhance human life and environmental quality, the newer field of "marine biotechnology" is becoming established. Simply, marine biotechnology seeks to develop goods and services from the organisms and processes of the ocean. For example, a compound from coral is used as an anti-inflammatory drug, as part of a larger quest for new medicines. Other scientific investigations are seeking ways to detect environmental contaminants, discover new industrial compounds, or assure quality of seafood.

     The rich and diverse ocean environments ringing Florida's coastline are one of America's most promising living laboratories for marine sea oats picturebiotechnology research, development, education and commerce. Thus it is only logical that the Florida Sea Grant College Program does its utmost to nurture this field. At this website Florida Sea Grant describes its research and education concerning marine biotechnology, and directs its partners and readers to important links in academia, business and government. From the analysis of novel compounds with potential to treat cancer, arthritis and other diseases, to the search for materials to reduce drag on boat hulls and methods to identify pollutants in the environment, Florida Sea Grant seeks to support Florida's best scientists, and train the scientists of the future, and then disseminate findings to lay and technical audiences. For a concise overview...see pdf.