Could KELP help in relieve Ocean Acidification?

Could KELP help in relieve Ocean Acidification?

In NEWS: A new analysis of California’s Monterey Bay evaluates kelp’s potential to reduce ocean acidification, the harmful fallout from climate change on marine ecosystems and the food they produce for human populations. 

What is Kelp? 

Kelp is the largest and fastest-growing marine algae or seaweed. It belongs to the brown algae group known as Phaeophyta. Although kelp may resemble an underwater plant, it is in fact a protist, the same family of organisms as moulids and amoebas. 

Kelp forests are found in the temperate and polar coastal regions of the world. 

 Why does kelp matter? 

• Kelp is a keystone organism, which means its role in the ecosystem is so vital, that without it the ecosystem would collapse.
• Kelp forests are among the most productive ecosystems in the world 
• Kelp purifies water and removes waste products produced by the animals living within the forests  
• Underwater forests provide shelter, food and the ideal habitat for various species 

Other Uses: Commercially, kelp is used in a wide variety of products, from salad dressings, cosmetics, food, vitamin supplements, skin care products, paint, etc.