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This research aims to quantify the stability components of kelp forests across various thermal stress levels.

May 24, 2026Journal of EcologyOpen Access

Stable and resilient kelp forests across a latitudinal gradient of thermal stress

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Randomized trial assesses kelp forest recovery and resilience across latitudinal thermal gradients, indicating ecological implications.

This research aims to quantify the stability components of kelp forests across various thermal stress levels.
Conducted a pulse-disturbance experiment in shallow kelp forests dominated by Laminaria hyperborea across four regions.
Monitored disturbed areas for 6 years, comparing outcomes with undisturbed reference areas.
Examined recovery trajectories, including kelp density and habitat structure restoration.
Initial recruitment and recovery of kelp density and canopy cover within 2 years, with broader habitat and biomass restoration in 5-6 years.
Stability was generally high, though slower recovery observed in warmer southern regions, signalling vulnerability.
Regional resilience variations highlight the importance of considering multiple stability components in ecological assessments.

King et al. (2026) studied this question.

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