The giant kelp of West America can grow into underwater forests due to the cold, nutrient-rich ocean currents from the polar regions. They provide shelters for small fish, crabs and mollusks, all of which attract seals and sea otters.
Kelp forest ecosystems are composed of a variety of large algae, providing sufficient food and habitat in which numerous marine organisms both feed and breed. As such, they are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world.
This kelp forest simulates those found along the Pacific coast of North America. With the help of nutrient-rich upwelling, kelp can grow to over 60 meters. The gas-filled chambers at the base of their fronds enable kelp to extend to the surface of the water.