Captivating Kelp Forests with Deal’s Emma Rosen

How much do you know about kelp?

Kelp

Have you ever found a long strap of brown seaweed on the beach and wondered what it is? You can often find pieces of the huge kelp blades, or sometimes whole seaweeds washed up on the shore. Did you know that it forms large forests from low tide to deeper waters? Did you know those forests are home to all sorts of marine species, from cuttlefish, to brittlestars, to seals.

When I first started diving in the UK, I quickly discovered that kelp was my favourite habitat. That might sound like an odd thing to have – a favourite habitat, but it’s true. Some people love coral reefs, or maybe rocky shorelines are more your thing. Perhaps you prefer habitats on the land – woodland, grassland or chalk downs. Perhaps you’ve never really thought about it. But for me, swimming over swaying kelp under the sea was like flying over a forest. It was exhilarating and mesmerising. I also remember a laboratory session during my marine biology degree where I was given a kelp holdfast (the root part) and had to see how many creatures I could find hiding in its twisted fingers. The answer is lots – kelp is incredibly biodiverse. Kelp also protects the coast from storms by taking some of the energy generated, as well as taking in carbon dioxide and thus tackling climate change. Overall, I think it’s pretty cool.

So when I found out that kelp would be the subject of the second book in my children’s book series ‘Discovering Marine and Coastal Habitats’, sponsored by Natural England, I was thrilled. The first book had been a great success. We focussed on seagrass meadows, with my rhymes and Welsh artist Rhiannon Thomas’ watercolour illustrations making this habitat accessible for children.

We were delighted that after the success of the first book in engaging children with marine habitats, we would continue exploring more. Rhiannon and I have been working hard on putting ‘Captivating Kelp Forests’ together for over a year. Along with the team from Natural England we have ensured the book is scientifically accurate, but also fun and accessible for kids. We explore what kelp is, what creatures live among its fronds, the threats it faces and the hope for the future of this habitat.

On returning to Kent (I’m based near Deal) I recently visited The Deal Bookshop and The Folkestone Bookshop in February to host some post book launch events.

So next time you find a dislodged piece of kelp on the beach, you’ll know how amazing it is. Personally, I think it’s captivating.

You can find out more on www.emmarosenbooks.co.uk. The book, along with other titles from Emma Rosen, is available via her website, Amazon, or can be ordered by bookshops.