kelpängarna

Kelpängarna, meaning "kelp meadows" in Swedish, refers to underwater ecosystems dominated by large brown algae, primarily kelp species. These marine forests are found in cooler, nutrient-rich coastal waters around the world, including the Baltic Sea where the term is often used. Kelp meadows are highly productive habitats, providing crucial food and shelter for a diverse array of marine life.

The structure of a kelp meadow is complex, with different species of kelp forming distinct layers, from canopy-forming species that reach the surface to smaller, understory kelps. This three-dimensional structure supports a rich biodiversity, including fish, invertebrates like sea urchins and crustaceans, and various seabirds and marine mammals that feed within or near these areas. They play a vital role in coastal ecosystems by stabilizing the seabed, reducing wave energy, and contributing significantly to primary productivity through photosynthesis.

Kelp meadows are sensitive to environmental changes. Factors such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and overgrazing by herbivores can lead to their degradation or loss, a phenomenon known as kelp forest decline. Conservation efforts often focus on reducing pollution, managing fisheries sustainably, and restoring damaged kelp habitats to maintain the ecological services they provide. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy marine environment.