The Great Southern Reef: Australia's neglected kelp forests

Professor Sean Connell from the University of Adelaide's Environment Institute was one of six researchers involved in a new article published in Marine & Freshwater Research.

The paper entitled, "The Great Southern Reef: social, ecological and economic value of Australia's neglected kelp forests," highlights the need for Australians to increase their awareness of the scale and significance of the incredibly diverse Southern Reef.

This reef is not only spectacular, but also underpins the economy of coastal communities through recreation, fisheries and tourism and deserves as much attention as its northern reef, the Great Barrier Reef.

The researchers are advocating that Australia spends similar intensity in looking after the future of the Great Southern Reef, researching its wonders and enhancing its educational and economic value. This reef cannot continue to support our needs if we do not look after its needs.

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Image source: primetraveling.com