Definition
noun,
The most biologically productive habitat found in the cold rich nutrient marine ecosystem.
Supplement
The term kelp forest refers to the impenetrable growths of Nereocystis, Macrocystis and Pelagophycus which have restricted vertical structure and canopies. A gigantic kelp forest may differ from a hundred feet to one extensive mile long.
Kelps are premeditated to replicate in water through a multifarious route recognized as alternation of generations. In this method, the kelp form spores and are then released into the water where they are dispersed. Due to favorable environment these spores build up into infinitesimal male and female plants. It will then carries out into fertilization wherein male sperm fertilizes female eggs and as growth continues it will become a mature plant that produces million of spores. As a consequence of these continuous rotation of reproduction kelp plants form substantial forest areas.
Kelp forest will serves as a sanctuary of various plankton communities. The tidal or diurnal contribution will add diversity to the plankton on cyclical basis. Kelp beds offer a safe haven for various zooplanktons by clammy waves altering hydrodynamic flow. Both the abundance and diversity of plankton are paramount inside the kelp forest due to the elevated numbers of kelp related species as well as the evident preservation of larvae within the kelp canopy.
It has a complex ecosystem that sustains several interrelated food webs in which it provides an array of territories of living organisms at all trophic levels wherein it can be separated into stratum that comprises the canopy, understory, and forest floor which in turn aided to describe this multifaceted ecosystem.
Related terms:
• Nereocystis
• Macrocystis
• Pelagophycus
See also:
• Kelp plants
• Marine ecosystem
• Biomes
Dictionary > Kelp Forest
