ABSTRACT

Marine microorganisms are a novel bio-resource for the development of exopolysaccharides. The extracellular polysaccharides are generated by marine microorganisms for their survival in harsh conditions. These microbes produce exopolysaccharides, which is the most crucial secretions necessary for their existence in the marine environment through several mechanisms such as food storage, biofilm formation, and functioning as a dispersant when starving. The complex structure, biological activity, biodegradability, and biocompatibility of marine exopolysaccharides have drawn increasing amounts of interest. These exopolysaccharides have found various applications in the food, environment, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. This chapter emphasizes on marine microorganisms focusing on exploring the marine exopolysaccharides from different sources, and their application in food, medical, as well as environmental fields.