Scientists Gene-Edit Kelp to Save Ocean Forests

Scientists in New South Wales just received international funding to explore a cutting-edge solution for saving the ocean's underwater forests.

Researchers at the NSW Department of Primary Industries are investigating whether gene editing could help kelp adapt to warming ocean temperatures. The project earned a grant from Revive & Restore, a US conservation group betting on innovative approaches to protect threatened ecosystems.

Kelp forms vast underwater forests along nearly one-third of the world's coastlines. Along Australia's Great Southern Reef, which stretches more than 8,000 kilometers, golden kelp supports entire ecosystems of fish, invertebrates, and other seaweeds.

But these forests are disappearing. Marine heatwaves and gradually warming waters are pushing kelp beyond its temperature limits, especially the cool-water species that thrive in southern Australia.

Senior research scientist Melinda Coleman says the team will start by studying microalgae genes to understand what makes some organisms heat-tolerant. Eventually, they hope to introduce similar genetic variations into kelp to boost its resilience.

"We know our kelp is being increasingly challenged by climate change, and it is starting to outpace the ability of our kelp forests to adapt," Coleman said. While genetically modified kelp remains years away, preparing the tools now could make all the difference later.

Research scientist Hugh Goold, who secured the grant, emphasized the importance of developing these technologies before they're urgently needed. The techniques could also benefit other farming sectors, from horticulture to agriculture.

The Ripple Effect

The impact reaches far beyond ocean ecology. Marine scientist Jo Lane runs a sustainable kelp business on the NSW far south coast, hand-harvesting storm-washed kelp for food and cosmetics.

She's now growing kelp in a laboratory in Tilba Tilba and holds a research permit to trial cultivation off Eden's coast. Lane sees kelp farming as both a business opportunity and a restoration tool.

"As a health product, it's fantastic. It's also good in cosmetics and skincare," she said. Kelp also shows promise as a natural fertilizer and bio-stimulant.

Stefan Andrews from the Great Southern Reef Foundation calls kelp "the frontline for climate change impacts" on Australia's southern waters. Rising sea urchin populations have added pressure through overgrazing, making research even more critical.

Innovation is giving these vital ocean ecosystems a fighting chance against a warming world.