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Forests of the Sea
Today, kelp forests thrive along the coast from northern California to Alaska. But just one hundred years ago, kelp forests didn't grow this far north. One reason the kelp forests have flourished is the general warming trend. But sea otters have also played an important role. What's their key to helping the kelp forests thrive? Sea urchins. You see, sea urchins eat giant kelp—lots and lots of giant kelp. In fact, it's hard for kelp forests to survive when there are many sea urchins around. But sea otters like to eat sea urchins—and when otters are nearby the urchins have to hide. By keeping the sea urchins under control, sea otters help kelp forests flourish. This is why over time, both kelp forests and sea otters have extended their range north along the Pacific coast. Now that's working together!
OLOGY CARD 143
Series: Biology
giant kelp
Think of giant kelp as the Godzilla of the seaweeds. These amazing brown seaweed can grow over 100 feet tall, at a rate of up to two feet a day! Large patches of kelp, called "kelp forests," can stretch many miles along cool coastal waters. These forests are important ecosystems, providing shelter and protection for many marine animals like sea urchins, snails, and crabs.
Image credits: main image, courtesy of Gary McCarthy, underwater-photos.