Kelp Forests

A kelp forest is a type of nearshore vegetative habitat, found along rocky coasts with wave action or strong currents in depths of 4 to 20 metres.

In the Salish Sea the bull kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana) forms a floating canopy layer, while the broad blade Laminarian kelp provides an understory layer, not readily visible from the water surface.  These kelp forests provide refuge for juvenile salmon and associated feed organisms.

Kelp forests are in noticeable decline in the Salish Sea in recent years. Water temperatures exceeding 18⁰C during summer months and intensive grazing pressure from sea urchins are believed to be the cause.