Large brown seaweeds that form underwater forests in cool, nutrient-rich coastal waters. These fast-growing marine algae create complex three-dimensional habitats for numerous marine species.
From Middle English, possibly from Celtic origins. The word originally referred to the ash of burned seaweed, which was used to make soap and glass, before being applied to the living seaweed itself.
Kelp forests are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, growing up to 2 feet per day! They act as underwater carbon sinks and provide nursery habitat for over 1,000 species, including sea otters who wrap themselves in kelp to avoid drifting away while sleeping.
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