Aug 28th 2024
Why We Chose To Plant Kelp
Sea Kelp, also referred to as the “tree of the sea,” is neither a tree nor a plant; it is a type of algae.
This organism thrives in cool, shallow, nutrient-rich saltwater along coastal areas. It forms dense underwater habitats known as kelp forests, which can grow to impressive heights of up to 250 feet. Kelp is vital for coastline ecosystems, serving as a cornerstone of marine biodiversity. Over 1,000 species, including sea lions, sea otters, various fish, invertebrates, and gray whales, depend on kelp for shelter, nourishment, and protection.
Kelp ranks second to bamboo in terms of growth rate, averaging around 2 feet per day, and plays a significant role in carbon absorption. A healthy kelp forest can sequester up to 3,000 metric tons of carbon per square kilometer annually, a capacity comparable to that of a thriving tropical rainforest.
Often overlooked because it exists beneath the surface, sea kelp is an essential contributor to and protector of our marine ecosystems.
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