The production of biofuel feedstock from the cultivation of different species of marine microalgae and related organisms in areas of open water including where the growth is stimulated by the addition of supplementary nutrients. Natural and farmed algal blooms are harvested for use as biofuel. A delivery system for supplying nutrients to the surface of the ocean to promote the growth of the microalgae is also covered. The system includes the use of a nutrient loaded biodegradable film which functions to slow release nutrients over time. A dynamic cultivation process is envisaged whereby areas to be cultivated are selected by predictive technology to achieve optimum conditions for growth and times for harvesting of the biofuel feedstock.
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