Kelp
seaweeds, belonging to the brown algae and classified in the order Laminariales. 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.
Morphology
Kelp grows in the form of long stalks, with leaflike blades at regular intervals. Each blade is supported by a float. For more on its morphology, see seaweeds.
Prominent species
- bull-head kelp (Nereocystis luetkeana), a northwestern American. Used by coastal Native Americans to create fishing nets.
- giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera), the largest seaweed. Found in the Pacific coast of North America.
Uses
Kelp ash is calcined and rich in iodine and alkali. In great amount, kelp ash can be used in soap and glass production. Alginate, a kelp-derived carbohydrate, is used to thicken products like ice cream, jelly, and toothpaste, as well as in manufactured goods.
Cooking
Konbu, Japanese name for Kelp, is used extensively in Japanese cuisines as one of the three main ingredients to make dashi, or a soup stock. Konbu is usually sold dried or in a dried shred called "Oboro konbu". It may also be eaten fresh sliced with little soysauce or as a ingredient in a soup. The best konbu is harvested in Hokkaido and is distributed globally. Taking konbu dashi is simple though konbu dashi powder may also be used. Konbu became popular in late 17th century as Hokkaido became part of Japan and a northern shipping route was established and it was shipped as far as India.
Interactions
Some animals are named after the kelp, either because they inhabit the same habitat as kelp or because they feed on kelp.
- Kelp crab (Pugettia producta), the Pacific coast of North America.
- Kelpfish (blenny) (e.g., Heterosticbus rostratus, genus Gibbonsia), the Pacific coast of North America.
- Kelp Goose (kelp hen) (Ocydromus fuscus), New Zealander
- kelp pigeon (sheathbill) (Chionis sp), Antarctic
See also
