Seaweed Helps the Ocean. Can Changing Its Genes Save It?

By Jacinta Counihan

ABC South East NSW

Topic: Scientific Research

Mon 22 Jun 2026 at 7:31am

Golden kelp is very common on the Great Southern Reef.

In short:

Scientists are studying genes to help kelp deal with climate change.

They will look at genes in microalgae that help it handle higher temperatures.

What's next?

The project got a grant from a US wildlife group.

Scientists want to use genetic editing to help kelp withstand climate change.

Two researchers got a grant from a US wildlife organization.

They will study microalgae genes to understand how they handle higher temperatures.

Kelp is a big brown seaweed that forms underwater forests.

A scientist said genetically modified kelp is still far away, but it's essential to study it now.

Scientists need new strategies to help kelp forests.

Kelp forests are struggling with climate change.

A scientist is exploring genetic editing to help kelp.

A research scientist said investment in research is crucial.

Research grants are very important.

Setting up tools and pathways in advance is important.

This research can also help other types of farming.

A scientist sees potential for this research in horticulture and agriculture.

A scientist says funding for this research is important.

A dire picture

Kelp forms underwater forests along one-third of the world's coastlines.

A foundation co-founder said golden kelp is very common on the Great Southern Reef.

Golden kelp supports many other species.

The Great Southern Reef stretches 8,000 kilometers.

Kelp forests are under threat from climate change.

Kelps do well in cold water, but struggle in warmer water.

Kelps have been declining due to climate change.

It's the frontline for climate change impacts.

Bull kelp is another species under threat.

Sea urchin populations have surged, adding pressure to kelp forests.

Research on kelp forests is crucial.

The wonder plant

A marine scientist harvests kelp sustainably.

The license is for kelp that has dislodged in storms.

They collect kelp early, wash it, dry it, and mill it.

They leave more than they take.

The scientist is now growing kelp in a lab.

Jo Lane has begun growing kelp in a lab.

She wants to trial kelp cultivation off the coast.

She got interested in farming kelp for a consistent supply.

Kelp is great for the ocean and humans.

Kelp is fantastic as a health product and in cosmetics.

There's interest in kelp for fertilizers and bio-stimulants.

ABC South East NSW - local news

Mon 22 Jun 2026 at 7:31am

Mon 22 Jun 2026 at 9:46am

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