Kelp Forests

Why in news?

• A recent study has revealed that Kelp forests are declining because of climate change.

Highlights of the Study:

• Ecklonia radiata, a dominant kelp species in the southern hemisphere, is vulnerable to climate change, especially in regions near the equator.
• Rising temperatures are causing declines in the species along the eastern Australian coastline and it is expected to decline further in the future globally.
• In situ protection may not be possible but its unique genetic diversity can be preserved through ex situ preservation in culture banks for use in future restoration, hybridization, or adaptation strategies.

About Kelp Forests:

• Kelp forests are underwater ecosystems formed in shallow water by the dense growth of several different species.
• Kelp is large brown algae that live in cool, relatively shallow waters close to the shore.
• They attach to the seafloor and eventually grow to the water’s surface and rely on sunlight to generate food and energy, kelp forests are always coastal and require shallow, relatively clear water.
• They provide underwater habitats to hundreds of species of invertebrates, fishes, and other algae and have great ecological and economic value.

Significance:

• It serves as a pertinent food source for a variety of marine creatures.
• As well as providing plenty of surfaces and nooks and crannies for other species to settle on or in and live, they shelter coastlines from storms and help sequester or absorb carbon from the atmosphere, making them incredibly important

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding Kelp Forests

1. They are found in relatively shallow waters close to the shore.

2. They helps in carbon sequestration.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer