A new tool for kelp restoration

We developed new techniques for restoring and protecting giant kelp, Macroc ystis pyrifera, forests in southern California using artificial kelp plants constructed of plastic. The blades of these artificial plants sweep across the substrate creating a whiplash effect similar to that reported in natur al kelp populations in Chile and southern California. The artificial plants reduced the density of purple sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, by almost 85% and red sea urchins, S. franciscanus, by 75% in sea-urchin-do minated areas. Artificial plants effectively protected giant kelp transplan ts that were placed in sea urchin-dominated areas.