Reflections on the mechanical harvesting of kelp: science, environmental change, wider thoughts and a way forward

by Juliet Brodie 9th November 2018 Revised 19th June 2019 Introduction Kelp forests are biologically remarkable marine habitats.  They occur in cold and temperate shallow coastal waters and are one of the most productive habitats on the planet (Birkett et al., 1998). Supporting an immense diversity of organisms (Christie et al., 2003), acting as nurseries …

What’s the best way to monitor kelp? The fun/efficiency trade-off

Kelp occupies the subtidal of our shores. In coastal ecosystems, kelp form habitats, providing food and a home for countless species. Their importance in coastal ecosystems is great, as is their commercial value to harvesters. HOWEVER, kelps face a wide range of pressures from harvesting to invasive species and climate change. Rising sea surface temperature (SST) …

Remote sensing of kelp: novel methods for mapping and monitoring wild kelp resources

The executive summary from a report for The Crown Estate, piloting novel methods for mapping and monitoring kelp resources in the northeast Atlantic. Executive summary Kelp (Laminariales) are large brown, habitat-forming macroalgal (seaweed) species. Their large biogenic structure and ‘forest-like’ nature provide nursery and feeding grounds for a rich diversity of associated flora and fauna, …

Jurassic Park: Kimmeridge Bay

Following our last successful trip to Lulworth Cove, Dorset, we decided it was worth taking another trip to the Jurassic coast for a second data gathering mission. Last Wednesday (23rd Aug) our team met at ZSL (London Zoo) in the early hours of the morning to collect our transport for the day (Fig 1). We …

Seaweeds: a hidden habitat under threat

Follow the final stages of the creation of the seaweed displays in the redeveloped Hintze Hall and hear about some of the latest research from the macroalgal research group, including our recent trip to Lulworth Cove.   https://youtu.be/c7OCft9HWgo

A window into the world of seaweeds

Professor Juliet Brodie explains why kelp forests are so important to coastlines all over the world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntayalN_2Ss