Microalgae genes could be key to reversing kelp's decline

Scientists in New South Wales are exploring genetic editing as a potential tool to help kelp withstand the growing pressures of climate change.

The project, led by two researchers at the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), recently received a grant from US-based wildlife conservation organisation, Revive & Restore.

The research will start by examining the genes of different microalgae species to better understand what makes them tolerant of higher temperatures, which could eventually be applied to kelp.

DPIRD senior principal research scientist Melinda Coleman said while genetically modified kelp was still a long way off, investigating its potential now was essential.

"If we can understand which genes are responsible for organisms to withstand higher temperatures … we could try to introduce variations in those [genetic] regions to boost thermal tolerance,"

Professor Coleman said.

She said scientists need to find more novel and innovative strategies in addition to traditional management and conservation approaches.

"We know our kelp is being increasingly challenged by climate change, and it is starting to outpace the ability of our kelp forests to be able to adapt," Professor Coleman said.

DPIRD research scientist Dr Hugh Goold applied for the international grant and said investment in scientific research was extremely important to help scientists prepare for the future.

"Research grants are everything," Dr Goold said.

"By setting up tools, regulatory approvals and implementation pathways in advance, we are making sure that the techniques and technologies are ready for when they are needed."

Dr Goold said this research could also help with other types of farming.

"I can see huge potential for us leveraging these kinds of experiments back towards sort of horticulture and agriculture."

A dire picture

Kelp is a group of large brown seaweeds that form underwater forests along nearly one-third of the world's coastlines.

Great Southern Reef Foundation co-founder Stefan Andrews said golden kelp was one of the most abundant species found on the Great Southern Reef, which spans more than 8,000 kilometres along Australia's southern coastline.

"Most people will instantly recognise our beautiful golden kelp, Eclonia radiata," Mr Andrews said.

"Its presence supports so many other species, whether that be seaweeds, fish, invertebrates, so much of it relies on the presence of the golden kelp being there."

But kelp forests are increasingly under threat from climate change.

"Our kelps are cool water species, so they do well when the water is cold," he said.

"But as water warms up gradually, particularly around marine heatwave events, kelps, including the golden kelp, have been declining in particular places.

"It's the frontline for climate change impacts on the Great Southern Reef."

Sea urchin populations have also surged in recent years, adding pressure to kelp forests through overgrazing.

"Any research that's going towards our kelp forests and our seaweeds across the Great Southern Reef is crucial to better understand these systems," Mr Andrews said.

The wonder plant

Marine scientist Jo Lane owns a business on the NSW far south coast sustainably hand harvesting kelp to be made into commercial food and cosmetic products.

"Our license through DPIRD is for kelp that has dislodged in storm events and washes in," she said.

"We get up really early and collect it as it rolls in fresh between the tides. We wash it, we dry it, we mill it.

"We leave more than we take."

Ms Lane is now moving into growing help and has set up a laboratory in Tilba Tilba.

She said she currently holds a research permit to trial kelp cultivation off the coast of Eden and hopes to soon test the kelp produced in the lab in ocean conditions.

"I got interested in farming kelp because it would give us a more consistent and more reliable supply," she said.

"Now that we can breed it, we can use that for farming, but more importantly, we can also use it for restoration."

Ms Lane said kelp was not only great for the ocean, but for humans as well.

"As a health product, it's fantastic. It's also good in cosmetics and skincare.

"There's a lot of interest in fertilisers and bio-stimulants as well with kelp."

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