Embark on a fascinating journey with us as dive into research to restore Tasmania's dwindling Giant Kelp forests.

Our researchers aim to identify thermal tolerant strains of Giant Kelp, a pivotal step in the restoration of these vital ecosystems. Join us in our exploration of cutting-edge solutions that are propelling conservation initiatives forward, all aimed at safeguarding the rich biodiversity inherent in Giant Kelp Forests and ensuring the resilience and longevity of these extraordinary marine habitats.

The Tasmanian Giant Kelp Restoration Project is a partnership between The Nature Conservancy @NatureaustraliaOrgAus, the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies @IMASTas, @nrmsouth, and Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO.

This TNC-managed project requires many levels of coordination and cooperation. Using a variety of sources, TNC identifies sites most suitable for Giant Kelp restoration.

IMAS grows Giant Kelp strains from remnant populations with the best chance of success for the site, and CSIRO uses population genetics to ensure diversity and increase thermal tolerance traits, to future-proof restored forests.

This Giant Kelp is then grown in the lab at IMAS for about six weeks before TNC and IMAS plant the Giant Kelp at the restoration sites, using a proven technique developed by IMAS to attach the juvenile Giant Kelp to the seafloor. Over time, this kelp is expected to grow to more than 10 metres in height and recover lost marine habitat.

TNC, NRM South, and IMAS are using this experience to develop a nationwide roadmap to recovery for Giant Kelp forests.

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Video transcript: https://www.csiro.au/Youtube/Owned-ar...

Music credit: Sweet Dreams by Lexin_Music (https://pixabay.com/music/main-title-...)