Kelp

Alariaceae

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Chordaceae

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Laminariaceae

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Lessoniaceae

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Phyllariaceae

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Pseudochordaceae

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Kelp are large seaweeds, belonging to the brown algae and classified in the order Laminariales. Despite their appearance they are not grouped with the normal aquatic or land plants (kingdom Plantae), but instead are included in either kingdom Protista or Chromista. There are about 30 different genera; sometimes members of the order Fucales are also considered kelp. Kelp grows in underwater forests (kelp forests) in clear, shallow, oceans, requiring nutrient rich water below about 20°C. It is known for its high growth rate - the genus Macrocystis grows up to 30 cm per day, to a total length of up to 60 metres.

Related Topics:
Seaweed - Brown alga - Kingdom - Plantae - Protista - Chromista - Genera - Fucales - Forest - Kelp forest - Macrocystis - 60 metres

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