These areas are sometimes referred to as the rain forests of the ocean because of the great biological diversity within their midst. Kelp is also added to makeup, shampoo, facial masks, massage gels and other personal care products. Sludge, silt or sewage dumped near kelp forests can bury new shoots of giant kelp. The kelp crab (Pugettia producta), a spider crab found among seaweed on the Pacific coast from Canada to Mexico, is about 1.25 cm (0.5 inch) wide and 2.5 cm (1 inch) long.It is green and red on top and green underneath.… When you take a close look, you can find jeweled top snails and other small animals that eat detritus (waste or organic matter) on the blades. A kelp-derived product is also used as a thickener in ice cream, jelly, toothpaste, breads, beer, pudding, salad dressing and other items. If living in ideal physical conditions, kelp can grow 18 inches (45 cm) a day. Kelp is found in the Pacific Ocean, most commonly near Western Australia, Japan, Mexico and California. Kelp. 2.) Kelp is a very nutritious plant to eat and is a common food in Japan, where it is used in soups, salads and sushi. By Brent Durand. Kelp forests are home to many different species, including fish, sea urchins and other marine animals, invertebrates, such as snails, and sea otters. Research is being conducted into using kelp in the treatment of breast cancer as well as in using it as a type of biofuel. Sea plants grow in every color and often have weird names like sea lettuce and devil’s apron. Like trees in a forest, these giant algae provide food and shelter for many organisms. Large animals like to hang out in the kelp too, such as dolphins, turtles and sharks. Because kelp attaches to the seafloor and eventually grows to the waters surface and relies on sunlight to generate food and energy, kelp forests are always coastal and require shallow, relatively clear water. Brown seaweeds are being found to have anti-tumor properties and may boost the immune system. ; The stipe is a long slender stalk, which extends vertically from the holdfast toward the surface. The kelp scientific name is Laminariales. Facts about Kelp Kelp is an important part of the present day Japanese diet, being used in salads, as a garnish, and in soups, sauces, and cakes, as well as to make noodles (Wurges and Frey 2005). Giant Kelp can also help to normalize overly low blood pressure. Kelp is high in iron, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, several vitamins and amino acids. For part of their lifetime, kelp forests in Alaska are home to 20 or more species of fish, who are attracted to the kelp by the food supply. These bladders help the kelp stay upright so the tops can reach the sunlight. Giant kelp can be eaten by humans, and contains a high potassium and iodine content, and the plant has historically been used to create potash, while in modern times it is used as a fertiliser; commonly as an emulsifier; and for chemical purposes in various industries. Sugar kelp is a yellowish brown marine algae wildly cultivated and eaten in Asia and growing in popularity in the United States as a nutritious food high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. At the base of these blades, the plant has bladders, little ball-shaped pods that are filled with air and gas. Nutrition Facts. It’s often where you aim to start a California dive. Giant kelp is so named because it grows to 213 ft (65 m). Facts about kelp benefits . The density of kelp forests can create protection in storms for many animals and decrease the intensity of currents and waves. There are several varieties of kelp: true kelp, which thrives in cool seas; giant kelp, and bladder kelp, which grow in the North Pacific. Here are some additional key facts about kelp: If you just can't find fresh or frozen kelp, take dehydrated kelp tablets instead. Learn about the major genera of kelp, their ecological and economic importance, and some of their characteristics in this article. There are various species of kelp found along the coastlines of the world’s oceans. A dredge rakes along the seabed and pulls plants from the rocky bottom. For part of their lifetime, kelp forests in Alaska are home to 20 or more species of fish, who are attracted to the kelp by the food supply. The canopy and sea bottom of the kelp forests house crabs, eels, sea sponges and many varieties of fish. 1. Otters attach their babies to kelp blades as they forage for food, and one of the sea otter's favorite food is the sea urchin. Considered by many to be a superfood because of its wide variety of nutrients, kelp has been a staple of several Asian cultures for centuries. Kelp Gull: Large, stocky gull with white head, underparts, tail. Well below are some interesting facts about sea kelp biology that you might not know, so read on. The inhabitants of the kelp forests eat the blades for vital energy. – In many countries, kelp is harvested as a feed and nutritional supplement for commercially farmed animals. Kelp also minimise inflammation, diabetes, and protects the heart and brain. In fact dry weight of kelp contains around 33-75% of dietary fiber. It looks magical in photos and every once in a while you get stuck in it. Kelp shelters a number of sea creatures, some of which are endangered. Giant Kelp has also been known to treat inflamed joints and tissues caused by arthritis and rheumatism. Giant Kelp. Facts About Kelp Nov 05. Kelp can have a lot of therapeutic and nutritional benefits, as it is a rich source of iodine, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, proteins, and healthy carbohydrates. Numerous sessile animals (sponges, bryozoans and ascidians) are found on kelp stipes and mobile invertebrate fauna are found in high densities on epiphytic algae on the kelp stipes and on kelp holdfasts. Kelp adaptations for survival help the plant thrive in the demanding ocean environment. It commonly grows in the polarand temperate coastal oceans of the world. 1.) Generally speaking, kelps live further from the tropics than coral reefs, mangrove forests, and warm-water seagrass beds, so kelp forests do not overlap with those systems. In fact, kelp provides a source of almost every vitamin and mineral except the vitamin B family. This is reinforced by agricultural companies, meant to be experts in their field, who talk about kelp as if it is the only Seaweed in the world. Kelp may have also helped ancient humans navigate the sea between Asia and North America. Kelp (Fucus vesiculosus) is a type of brown seaweed, moderate in size, that grows in regions with cold coastlines, including those of the northwestern United States and northern Europe. Kelp grows at or below the low-tide level on the rocky seabed and extends to depths as far as sunlight can penetrate. It is a good source of vitamin C, pantothenic acid, copper, zinc, riboflavin, vitamin K, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese and folate. This food has very high sodium content. – In many countries, kelp is harvested as a feed and nutritional supplement for commercially farmed animals. Kelp can grow to be one hundred feet tall! At the base of these blades, the plant has “bladders,” little ball-shaped pods that are filled with air and gas. Kelp, any of about 30 genera of brown algae (order Laminariales) that grow as large coastal seaweeds in colder seas of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. It is consumed as a food supplement and can be added to your food products. Areas are ideally harvested only once every four years to allow plants to regrow before more are taken. Sea urchins devour kelp beds and can devastate a kelp forest. Other facts. Kelp is food for abalones such as the California Red Abalone. From these roots grows a slender stalk with long, leaf-like blades. Some species of kelp form large forests beneath the shallow waters of the ocean. One of the most interesting facts about kelp: the giant kelp species is one of the fastest growing plants in nature and can grow up to two feet per day! 1) Fast growth rate In ideal conditions that are nutrient-rich water with temperatures between 5 and 14'C (43 and 57'F), kelp can grow up to 45cm per day (18 inch's) according to the *National Ocean Service, which is part of the larger NOAA. Black back and upperwing with white trailing edge and one distinctive white spot on outer primary tip. Kelp helps rehydration. Seaweed doesn’t have a vascular system like other plants, but all parts of the kelp absorb the nutrients and gases that it needs to grow from the water in which it is immersed. Kelp plays a major role in the marine ecosystem. Kelp may develop dense forests with high production, biodiversity and ecological function. 2. These bladders help the kelp stay upright so the tops can reach the sunlight. Kelp is harvested from the ocean for a variety of purposes. Kelp is a certain type of seaweed which comes from the orderof laminariales and the family of brown algae. Giant kelp can grow up to 40 to 65 metres (44 to 71 yards) in height, and as such, is the earth’s largest ocean plant. Kelp can assist you in weight loss, improve diabetes risk factors, and prevent or treat certain blood disorders. Kelp is used commercially in medicines, cosmetics and other everyday household items. Kelp thrives in cold water with lots of waves or a strong current; this turbulence brings nutrients that are necessary to the kelp's survival. The giant sea otter, an endangered species, is often found in areas with a lot of kelp. An underwater ecosystem in and of itself, giant kelp can be so dense that it is commonly referred to as a kelp forest. The health benefits of kelp include its ability to regulate the thyroid gland, improve the metabolism, lower the risk of cancer, and help in weight loss.It promotes hydration, protects against radiation poisoning, strengthens the bones, balances the pH levels, and boosts immunity.It also helps control diabetes, reduce inflammation, and boost blood circulation and maintain healthy skin. Facts about the Kelp Forest/Kelp. It creates shelter for fish, like rockfish, huge sheephead and bright orange garibaldi. Despite their appearance they are not grouped with the normal aquatic or land plants (kingdom Plantae).There are about 30 types. Information on Kelp. These areas are sometimes referred to as the rain forests of the ocean because of … Kelp is an amazing marine plant that provides habitat and protection for many ocean animals. Sludge, silt or sewage dumped near kelp forests can bury new shoots of giant kelp. It has many leaves, called blades, which are shaped like swords. Is grown in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Kelp has following nutrition facts are as mentioned below:-It has 70 types of vitamins, proteins, trace elements and minerals. Fascinating Facts about Kelp – Health benefits: Kelp contains more vitamins and minerals than any other food – a total of 60 trace mineral elements, 13 vitamins and 20 amino acids. In terms of nutrition, kelp contains dietary fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids.It is also a rich source of vitamin B1, riboflavin, vitamin B3, folate, pantothenic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin K.The mineral wealth in it includes zinc, copper, calcium, potassium, sodium, iron, magnesium, boron, iodine, and manganese.. Health Benefits of Kelp Kelp is also used in the production of soaps and glass. Large animals like to hang out in the kelp too, such as dolphins, turtles and sharks. Sea kelp is seaweed or algae. Kelp … Also like a terrestrial forest, kelp forests experience seasonal changes. Sea Kelp Facts for Kids. It can help people with some illnesses feel better and provide nutrients for healthy hair. Facts about kelp benefits . what are 4 fun facts about kelp. With a potential growth rate of up to 60 centimetres (2 feet) daily, giant kelp is among the fastest growing wildlife known. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Kelp plants have three basic structural units: The holdfast is a root-like tangle, which fixes a kelp to the sea floor or other anchoring surface. January 3, 2019 Celine. Along the Norwegian coast these forests cover 5800 km 2, and they support large numbers of animals. Hundreds of species grow all over the world, but sea kelp is a special kind of ocean plant, the largest and the most critical plant to the survival of many endangered sea animals. Here are some facts you never knew about kelp. Vehicles built especially for kelp harvesting are used in bringing the plants in from the ocean. Just a 3-tablespoon (15 g) serving of kelp salad or a few strips of kombu kelp added to your soup is enough. Kelp has goopy stuff called phycocolloids in its cell walls. 3. Fucoidan, found in kelp, has been extensively researched for its cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties. Some species of kelp form large forests beneath the shallow waters of the ocean. Like those syst… 3. Learn about the major genera of kelp, their ecological and economic importance, and some of their characteristics in this article. The high presence of vitamin K in kelp, along with fucoidan, helps to keep your bones strong. It commonly grows in the polarand temperate coastal oceans of the world. Kelp grows in underwater forests (kelp forests) in clear, shallow, oceans, requiring nutrient rich water below about 20 °C (68 °F), it offers a protection to some … Kelp is a place to hide for many fishes. Plants in the ocean can be hard, soft, slimy or even delicious. Kelp has also been found to have therapeutic effects in heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Sugar kelp has long been known as a sweetener and having thickening and gelling … With sea otters unable to control urchin populations, urchins mowed down kelp forests. Joy's writing specializes in design, technical and art-related topics. Giant Kelp enhances the immune system and eliminates the negative effects that stress may have on the body. 1) Although it looks a lot like a tree, kelp is actually a type of brown algae or seaweed. Kelp are large seaweeds, belonging to the brown algae and classified in the order Laminariales. Is grown in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. by Pete Campbell — Last updated: 2011-02-10 . The lack of kelp forests, in turn, did not help sea otter populations rebound. Extracts from kelp and other seaweeds are used in toothpaste, ice cream and shampoo. In the 1700s and 1800s, sea otters were almost hunted to extinction for their furs. image: 3c1703fe8d.site.internapcdn.net Facts about Kelp. Kelp Nutrition. Kelp can reach a length of up to 60 m. Kelp, any of about 30 genera of brown algae (order Laminariales) that grow as large coastal seaweeds in colder seas of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. Kelp grows in underwater forests (kelp forests) in clear, shallow, oceans, requiring nutrient rich water below about 20 °C (68 °F), it offers a protection to some sea creatures, or food for others. Some of these creatures are also food for bigger ones; for example, sea otters eat sea urchins, which in turn can eat an entire kelp forest if no otters are around to keep them under control. Kelp contains high concentrations of iodine, making it especially useful in treating a condition of the thyroid gland caused by lack of iodine. Kelp is used commercially in medicines, cosmetics and other everyday household items. Kelp Nutrition Facts. Cool facts Giant kelp is harvested as a source of algin, an emulsifying and binding agent used in the production of many foods and cosmetics, like ice cream, cereal and toothpaste. This is an example of what can happen when we lose a keystone species in an ecosystem. Daily values are based on 2000 calorie diet and 155 lbs (70 kg) body weight . Foster spent nearly two decades as a newspaper reporter/editor. – Kelp also contains an astonishing amount of vitamins and minerals, particularly iodine, which has a normalising effect on the thyroid gland that controls the body’s growth and development. Actual daily nutrient requirements might be different based on your age, gender, level of physical activity, medical history and other factors. Learn Kelp forest facts for kids. The students quickly sorted the facts into categories. Kelp is also included in medicines that are used to treat tuberculosis, arthritis, colds, influenza and some infections. Post a comment. what are 4 fun facts about kelp. Information on Kelp. Kelp is a large greenish-brown plant that can grow more than 175 feet tall. by Pete Campbell — Last updated: 2011-02-10 . To grow so tall, each blade at the top of the kelp splits into two. Cool facts Giant kelp is harvested as a source of algin, an emulsifying and binding agent used in the production of many foods and cosmetics, like ice cream, cereal and toothpaste. Fresh kelp helps keep you regular, but you don't need a big bowl every day. The kelp is then washed to remove sand, silt, shells and other debris, dried and processed. Many fish will hide from predators in the kelp forests or may use its shade to raise a family. Since 1996 she has been published in various music magazines, poetry compilations and business publications. Giant kelp is common among ecosystems in providing shelter for numerous aquatic life in the form of kelp beds and forests. There may be other kelp forest plants, although some of these may actually be animals; the most interesting animal among the kelp may be the weedy sea dragon, which is a kind of seahorse that looks just like a floating piece of seaweed. Research may eventually lead to products containing seaweed to help those battling these conditions. – Kelp also contains an astonishing amount of vitamins and minerals, particularly iodine, which has a normalising effect on the thyroid gland that controls the body’s growth and development. It has antioxidant and diuretic properties and has been shown to lower the rate of breast cancer, heart disease, rheumatism, arthritis and infectious diseases. The following table shows an overview of the nutritional profile (3, 4). In ideal conditions, kelp can grow up to 18 inches per day, and in stark contrast to the colorful and slow-growing corals, the giant kelp canopies tower above the ocean floor. Kelp is also an important resource for humans and is harvested for food, medicinal purposes and its uses in various products. She graduated from Campbellsville University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in English, journalism and political science. Kelp is a certain type of seaweed which comes from the orderof laminariales and the family of brown algae. Kelp is a large greenish-brown plant that can grow more than 175 feet tall. The possibility of kelp as a dietary antioxidant in preventing aging and diseases also is being studied. To grow so tall, each blade at the top of the kelp splits into two. Bethney Foster is social justice coordinator for Mercy Junction ministry, where she edits the monthly publication "Holy Heretic." Kelp forests make tons of oxygen for nearby waters. The decline of sea otters in Southern California had a surprising effect on giant kelp forests. Answer. Kelp is often added to foods and vitamins and is made into soups and other dishes in some cultures. Kelp grow in large forests, usually near the surface of the water.Some kelps grow very fast (up to 30 cm a day). I cut apart all of the kelp facts on the chart and we laid them out in our meeting area. Kelp forest has a greater variety and diversity of plants and animals than almost any other ocean community. This condition, called goiter, has been treated with kelp for centuries. Brown algae thallus serves chiefly as a source of iodine. 2.) Mother Earth News: Health Benefits of Kelp. Facts about the Kelp Forest/Kelp. Kelp anchors itself to rocky surfaces via tentacle-like roots. Nutrition facts for Seaweed, raw, kelp, recommended daily values and analysis. Vail Joy is a longtime writer, designer and copy editor with a vibrant background in corporate business writing, technical writing and music journalism. Then, healthy kelp forest maintains the ecosystem in the ocean such as stock of fishes, plants, and animals. Kelp is a type of marine seaweed.It is a brown alga.There are many different kinds of kelp. Kelp holds their nutritive value which belongs to the seaweed family. Kelp has some impressive nutritional benefits; it’s full of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and also offers some unique phytochemicals. Kelp thrives in cold, nutrient-rich waters. In fact, kelp, a form of seaweed, has made its way into kitchens of health-conscious people all over the world — and that’s perfectly OK with me. She is also an adoption coordinator with a pet rescue agency. In addition to being nutritious and mineral-rich, the growth and lifestyle habitats of sea kelp … Bill is yellow with a red spot near tip; eyes are yellow-gray with red orbital rings; legs and feet are yellow-green. The general morphology of various kelp species form the basis around which the kelp forest ecosystem is built. Kelp forests are home to many different species, including fish, sea urchins and other marine animals, invertebrates, such as snails, and sea otters. It’s also something you swim around when on a long surface kick. Giant Kelp Image courtesy of NOAA Photo Library/Flickr At Seaweed Enterprises Australia we don’t sell Kelp. Post a comment. Fun Facts About Kelp Forests. Kelp vs Ascophyllum nodosum "In Australia there is a tendency to call any Seaweed “kelp”. An underwater ecosystem in and of itself, giant kelp can be so dense that it is commonly referred to as a kelp forest. It is a popular additive in vitamins and sometimes taken alone for these qualities. Kelp's healthy benefits are why the Sea Veg® supplement contains brown kelp among several other seaweeds. It is known for its high growth rate and can grow grows up to 30 centimetres (10 inches) per day, to a total length of over 60 metres (200 feet). It has many leaves, called blades, which are shaped like swords. Sea kelp is seaweed or algae. Kelp is an amazing marine plant that provides habitat and protection for many ocean animals. Some of these categories included: What is kelp, Parts of kelp, Kelp forests, Animals that live in kelp, Fish and the kelp forest, Sea otters and kelp, and Scientists and kelp. The canopy and sea bottom of the kelp forests house crabs, eels, sea sponges and many varieties of fish. Kelp Fun Facts. Kelp crab, Pacific species of spider crab . To reproduce, the kelp creates tiny zoospores that float away to create new kelp and, eventually, a kelp forest. 1.) Sea kelp beds are like an underwater forest, and there are many fascinating secrets lurking in this plant that lives under the ocean waters. The most interesting animal among the kelp may be the weedy sea dragon, which is a kind of seahorse that looks just like a floating piece of seaweed. Read: Facts of Blue Whales – Endangered Blue Whales. Some kelp species can measure up to 150 feet (45 m) long. Kelp are not plants, but rather extremely large brown algae, and many different species of kelp make up kelp forests. It is used in fertilizer, soil conditioners and some animal feeds.