Recent research unveils the critical link between kelp forests and sandy beaches, highlighting how kelp wrack, a form of detrital kelp biomass, supports beach ecosystems. This cross-ecosystem subsidy is crucial for the productivity and stability of these coastal environments.
The spatial connection between kelp forests and beaches is typically localized, often within 10 kilometers, and peaks during winter. This seasonal variation emphasizes the importance of proximity and beach characteristics like width and orientation in kelp wrack deposition.
Kelp wrack provides organic matter, fueling diverse food webs and boosting beach ecosystem productivity. Disruptions to kelp forests, such as those caused by marine heatwaves, can significantly impact the availability of kelp wrack and, consequently, beach health. Conservation efforts, including the "Help Our Kelp Act of 2025", aim to protect and restore these vital ecosystems.
The relationship between kelp forests and sandy beaches underscores the need for integrated conservation. Protecting and restoring kelp forests is essential for both marine resilience and the sustainability of coastal ecosystems.