restoration on the great southern reef
Australian researchers are working at the global forefront of marine habitat restoration, with projects underway in every state along the Great Southern Reef.
Habitat restoration is a resource intensive exercise used as a last resort for areas where vital habitats have been lost or are in decline and natural recovery is not occurring. Currently there are active restoration projects on the GSR working to restore seaweeds, seagrasses, and oyster reefs.
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BACKGROUND
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Start here: Lesson Introduction
Click here to get started
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Know your seaweeds
Unlike tropical reefs, which are primarily built by corals, the Great Southern Reef is formed by extensive underwater kelp forests -
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Exploring the ocean with scuba diving
In this activity, you'll explore how scuba diving is used in various careers and choose a scuba-related profession to research.
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Glossary
Here is a list of important words related to this lesson.
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WATCH THE FILM
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UNDERSTANDING GIANT KELP FORESTS
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Kelp Form & Function
You will explore the physical structure of giant kelp and how each part contributes to the kelp’s survival and role in the ecosystem.
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Rainforest comparison
You will compare and contrast giant kelp forests with terrestrial rainforests - looking at aspects like biodiversity, ecosystem services, and environmental threats.
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Hidden Value of Kelp
You will watch a video and explore the different types of ecosystem services provided by kelp forests.
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THREATS AND RESTORATION
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Giant Kelp Threats
What are the main threats to giant kelp forests?
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Restoration
You will explore different methods for restoring giant kelp forests and consider how these efforts can benefit both the environment and the various stakeholders involved.
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Social Research Project
You will conduct a social research project to gather information on how people in your community understand and perceive the importance of kelp forests.
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FUTURE FORESTS
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Class Debate
You will represent a kelp forest staleholder such as marine scientist, commercial fisher, or environmental organisation, proposing solutions for the restoration and conservation of kelp forests.
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Ocean Optimism
You will work with your classmates to create a classroom action plan aimed at addressing environmental challenges, particularly the preservation of kelp forests.
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