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Project Code [2018-W-MS-35]
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Project title
The Diversity and Resilience of kelp ecosystems in Ireland
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)
Lead Applicant
Kathryn Schoenrock
Project Abstract
KelpRes is a timely research project that will enhance our understanding and capacity to monitor kelp forest ecosystem function and resilience along the coast of Ireland. The research will be performed in four work packages that focus on the dominant sub-tidal kelp species, Laminaria hyperborea, also known as May Weed. Work will begin with an analysis of historical species distribution and associations in Ireland, combining disparate data records from academic and citizen science projects around Ireland. This will feed into two studies of resilience: i) populations genetics of L. hyperborea, which will determine the diversity of alleles within Ireland and in comparison to Europe and ii) 'spore banks' within established kelp forests in the southwest and northwest throughout a year (four seasons) to understand early life stage dynamics and recruitment in these ecosystems. Finally we will develop continued monitoring tools that can be used remotely (COPERNICUS) and in situ (SCUBA, snorkelers, fisheries, etc.) by stakeholders. This project is timely as wild harvest of kelp forest begins in Ireland, and strong public opposition in the local community drives our need to better understand them. This research will result in reports for policy makers and marine spatial planning (through the EPA DROPLET tool and otherwise) outlining kelp forest population distribution and resilience. Two info-graphics will be created to describe research outputs and species records accompanied by kelp forest literature will be deposited in national databases (NBDC). At least three open access, peer reviewed publications, and two international conference papers will present the project research to the scientific community. Info-graphics and a RTE TV segment on kelp forests will accompany outreach events and workshops (with SeaSearch Ireland) to disseminate research to the general public. Lastly, the proposed project will create monitoring tools for stakeholder continued assessment of kelp forest ecosystem distribution and health. Involvement in Water JPI-TAP action as well as EU and worldwide kelp forest monitoring networks (MARFOR and KEEN) will integrate research outputs in worldwide data sets and streamline methodologies for future research.
Grant Approved
�249,156.97
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Water - Ecosystem services and sustainability
Initial Projected Completion Date
06/01/2021