What will GEcoKelp investigate?
Over four years, the project will employ a multi-faceted approach, including field sampling, laboratory experiments and computer modelling to provide a rigorous assessment of the influence of climate change and anthropogenic activities on Norwegian kelp forests from the genetic to the ecosystem level. In this way, the team aim to secure a sustainable future for kelp forests. The projects is organised into five interacting working packages:
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WP 1: Mapping the genetic structure of kelp forests along the Norwegian coast.
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WP 2: Aquarium experiments to determine how genetic diversity and adaptation influence population level responses to environmental stressors.
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WP 3: Field experiments to assess the influence of adaptation and genetic diversity on kelp resilience.
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WP 4: Using computer modelling to predict how kelp forest ecosystems will respond to future climate change.
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WP 5: Coordination of the project and communication of findings.
Funding & Associations
GecoKelp is generously funded by Forskningsrådet - The Research Council of Norway.
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The project is a collaboration between individuals at several institutions including: Havforskningsinstituttet - Norway's Institute of Marine Research, The University of Western Australia, Roskilde University and NSW's Department of Primary Industries.
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The project will work closely with other research efforts including BlueARC, Marine Heatwaves International Working Group, Green Gravel Action Group, REEF ADAPT, and aims to support the UN Ocean Decade.
​If you would like more information about collaboration opportunities please contact us!