Future prospects for kelp forests

Kelp forests are a greatly appreciated resource by many outdoor enthusiasts. Activities that take place in and around the forests include snorkeling and scuba diving, fishing, photography, and research. As a result of the research that is being done, we now know a great deal about the kelp forests specifically in Monterey, but we have been able to apply our knowledge to kelp forests in other areas as well. We have learned a fair amount about the relationships between organisms in kelp forests, but there is still much to be discovered. Research is currently being done to fully understand the effects that pollution has on kelp growth, the process through which kelp grows, and the effects that fishing can have on plant and animal diversity. Specifically, sporophytes- the beginnings of new kelp plants- are being researched so we can better understand the process through which they develop and how pollutants and sedimentation affect them.