Kelp Forest Replanting by 2040 Shows Crucial to Save from Decline, Brink of Extinction

Scientists and environmentalists have raised concerns over the declining status of kelp forests globally as climate change and pollution have impacted kelp forests.

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), kelp forests have been an essential habitat for food and shelter for marine species.

NOAA added that kelp forests also thrive in North America. People can recognize a kelp forest because the brown algae make it more attractive to aquatic animals.

Kelp forests help species of sea lions, gulls, whales, shore birds, fish and other marine species thrive.

Call for conservation efforts and challenge to replanting

(Photo : by KENA BETANCUR/AFP via Getty Images)
Kelp Forest Replanting by 2040 Shows Crucial to Save from Decline, Brink of Extinction

A recently published report on the Phys.org website showed that researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney explained the importance of replanting kelp forests.

The report explained a need to replant about a million hectares of underwater kelp forests by 2040.

Meanwhile, Dr. Aaron Eger from Kelp Forest Alliance (KFA) emphasized that kelp forests are affected and threatened.

The global replanting efforts would help restore or reverse the declining state of kelp forests.

The conservation of kelp forests would also save species from habitat loss. 

In addition, the researchers noted a lack of protection efforts for kelp forests, unlike the coral reefs and terrestrial forests.

However, the global efforts would need about $40 billion in investment, according to the report.

The initiative cooperated with 450 kelp forest conservationists and experts advocating for the urgent protection of kelp forests.

On the other hand, the study noted that they managed to compile records of affected kelp forests and the immediate restoration plans.

Did you know? More facts about kelp forests

Meanwhile, Oceana explained that kelp forests could reach up to 150 feet underwater. The forests are considered ideal for marine animals due to their rich nutrients.

Unlike other systems of habitat, the report noted that kelp forests could disappear depending on the conditions. In addition, illegal fishing practices and widespread water pollution could impact kelp forests.

On the other hand, the emergence of sea urchins in kelp forests could impact their populations. As a result, sea otters manage the presence of sea urchins.

Also Read: Sharks, Rays Declining Population Raises Concerns Over Impact on Ecosystems, Coastal Communities

The National Park Service (NPS) explained that kelp forests have no roots. They can grow on rocky shorelines in California, the Pacific Coast and Alaska.

For kelp forests to thrive, there is a need for sunlight. As a result, a clear water system is crucial for the abundance of kelp forests as essential habitats.

Regarding water, kelp forests are sensitive to warm water, reaching more than 20 degrees.

There is a chance that the kelp forests will not prosper.

As mentioned in previous reports, kelp forests could disappear, and their life cycles could reach for one year or longer depending on the needed requirements for their survival.

As a result, the extinction of kelp forests would affect many marine organisms dependent on kelp existence

Related Article: Red Sea Urchin in Southern California Could Suffer from Climate Change, New Report Finds

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