The kelp forest ecosystem is a key source of marine diversity and abundance in cold water oceans. This vibrant floating canopy delivers the sun’s energy into the marine ecosystem, gives shelter to young fish, and feeds urchins, abalone, crabs, and other marine life.
Unfortunately, researchers are increasingly concerned about declining trends in the size and condition of kelp forests in the Pacific Northwest. Underlying factors include climate change, sea star wasting disease, urchin population explosions, and see otter absence. Explore this amazing biological community and its emerging conservation issues.