Project Overview – [But make it Rocky/MUDDy]
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.
– Intertidal Habitats –
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 