Kelp forests are increasingly threatened by marine heatwaves. A collaborative long-term monitoring program in Baja California, Mexico, is at the forefront of understanding and addressing this global challenge.
In collaboration with local fishing cooperatives, we are generating crucial data to understand the impacts of climate change on these ecosystems. Using underwater transects, our research team tracks the diversity and abundance of kelp, fish, and invertebrates. This data allows us to analyze how marine heatwaves are altering the structure of the kelp forest community.
A primary focus of our work is to identify the characteristics of resilient kelp forests and explore adaptive management strategies to bolster their ability to withstand future climate shocks. By integrating scientific research with the knowledge of local communities, we aim to co-develop solutions that promote both thriving ecosystems and resilient coastal livelihoods. Ultimately, this collaborative research contributes to a global network of knowledge, informing conservation efforts to protect and restore kelp forests worldwide.
Collaborators
