From microscopic spores to sprawling forests — sugar kelp plays a big role in the Gulf of Maine, providing rich habitat, food, and clean water. It’s also the bedrock of Maine’s kelp aquaculture industry.
Island (Credit: Atlantic Sea Farms and New England Ocean Cluster).
A new study led by Bigelow Laboratory researchers provides the most comprehensive assessment of the species’ genetic diversity to date, while also mapping population structure along the coast.
The team identified four distinct populations and a wealth of genetic variation — which could hold potential for innovation in kelp aquaculture.
