Project Overview
Saccharina latissima, commonly known as sugar kelp, is under threat from rising temperatures, and high levels of nutrient input. The Libertas Team have been monitoring the ocean temperature at a series of location around Scotland’s coast.
Once enough data has been collected, we aim to provide valuable insights into why sugar kelp has declined in coverage around the UK.
– Sugar Kelp –
Why is Sugar Kelp Important?
Sugar kelp forests provide a range of ecosystem services.
- Habitat for fish, invertebrates and marine mammals.
- Coastal Protection.
- Climate Change mitigation.
- Primary Productivity
[Something Something Kelp is cool]
From Food, to Fuel.
Wild sugar kelp forests can be found up to a depth of 30 meters (100 feet). However it has been farmed by humans for centuries.
Sugar kelp has a variety of commercial uses
- Kombu
- Biofuel
- Cosmetics
- Alcohol
[This is why Kelp is really cool for business]
Habitat Threats
[Kelp is dying and stuff for real, that’s bad.]
Locations of Interest
- Bell Bay, The Isle of Cumbrae.
Want to get involved?
Contact the Libertas Team below to get involved with our projects!
Libertas scuba stirling 