As the oceans equivalent of trees, a kelp plant shares many of their features. At the base is a large structure called a holdfast which form the roots. Then there is the stipes which make up its trunk and branches. Flat blade like structures then form the leaves.<br />
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Kelp forests have and continue to be the focus of much scientific research in California as they are a highly productive marine ecosystem which has been heavily impacted by pollution and over fishing.<br />
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Under ideal conditions Macrocystis can reach lengths of 100 feet or more within 1 to 2 years. A Kelp Forest supports an incredibly diverse community of marine life made up of nearly 800 known species. <br />
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Kelp is commercially harvested for Algin a compound used as a smoothing agent in hundreds of products. A few examples include cosmetics salad dressings canned foods and frozen foods such as ice cream. Only the upper canopy is cut away much like mowing a lawn. The Kelp Forest quickly re-grows and can be harvested multiple times per year.<br />
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The round bulbs at the base of each blade are called pneumatocysts. Each one is a gas filled bladder that provides buoyancy. Collectively they assist in keeping the kelp plant in an upright position.<br />
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Range: Alaska to Magdalena Bay Baja Mexico    <br />
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Species: Macrocystis pyrifera