Save The World & Magical Kelp Forests - David Attenborough - BBC Inside Out South

Kelp Forests: The Underwater Ecosystems of Sussex

Overview of Kelp Forests

• Kelp forests are magical underwater ecosystems that support a diverse range of marine life, acting as vital nursery grounds for young commercial fish.

• These forests are among the most productive environments on Earth, home to thousands of species including common cuttlefish and short-snouted seahorses.

Biodiversity and Habitat Importance

• Every part of the kelp forest is utilized by various marine creatures; fronds provide shelter and food for grazers like top shells.

• Kelp forests serve as nurseries for species such as baby cat sharks and squid, with each capsule containing numerous young squid.

Role in Climate Change Mitigation

• Kelp forests play a significant role in combating climate change by drawing down over 600 million tons of carbon globally, which is double the UK's annual emissions.

• They stabilize sediments and can reduce wave energy by up to 70%, while also oxygenating water, fostering biodiversity essential for wildlife survival.

Decline of Kelp Forests in Sussex

• Historically extensive along the Sussex coast, kelp forests have drastically diminished due to changing fishing practices and sediment dumping that blocks light necessary for growth.

• The loss of these habitats has led to a significant reduction in local fish populations, including cuttlefish and lobsters. This decline is concerning for marine biodiversity.

Restoration Efforts

• A new initiative led by the Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority aims to regenerate kelp forests by pushing trawling activities away from coastal areas where kelp used to thrive.

• Successful restoration could revitalize marine wildlife populations, purify water, restore nursery functions, and enhance overall ecosystem health along the Sussex coast.