Coastwatch
Seaweed Module
Pilot Citizen Science Module
This seaweed citizen science pilot pack is to provide information to both those curious about seaweeds and to society which is grappling with how to protect this amazing wealth of species and habitats. It is suitable for individual, family and school use and adaptable from primary to forming part of secondary school biology and geography field study modules. Use during the Coastwatch autumn survey or on shore visits during the year where you see a range of seaweeds in situ and washed up.
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In view of rising seaweed harvest and aquaculture interest, one urgent concern is how to ensure that sufficient high value sites are protected and that harvesting is sustainable for the marine ecosystems which depend on those seaweeds. That requires more information, especially about our brown seaweed forests and the animals which live there or need them at key times such as laying eggs. The guide also touches on climate change and how this may be effecting different seaweeds so we jointly keep an eye open for changes in seaweed cover and species.
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A small number of relatively easy to identify macro algae are included with simple sketches. We recommend you look them up on line or invest in Prannie Rhatigan’s identification booklet for kitchen use seaweeds here.
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This is a pilot pack and we would love your feedback on how it might be improved.
