Which type of seaweed grows in large colonies and is threatened by ocean warming?

Which type of seaweed grows in large colonies and is threatened by ocean warming?

• A. Seaweed
• B. Kelp
• C. Algae
• D. Coral

Answer: (B)

Kelp forms dense underwater forests by growing in large colonies along coastlines. These tall, bushy brown algae thrive in cool, nutrient-rich waters where upwelling brings food to them. When ocean temperatures rise, the conditions kelp needs become less favorable, leading to slower growth, stress, and declines in entire kelp forests. That combination—large colony growth and vulnerability to warming—fits kelp best. The other terms are broader or refer to different organisms (seaweed is a general category, algae includes many forms, and coral is an animal that builds reefs), so kelp is the correct match.

Kelp forms dense underwater forests by growing in large colonies along coastlines. These tall, bushy brown algae thrive in cool, nutrient-rich waters where upwelling brings food to them. When ocean temperatures rise, the conditions kelp needs become less favorable, leading to slower growth, stress, and declines in entire kelp forests. That combination—large colony growth and vulnerability to warming—fits kelp best. The other terms are broader or refer to different organisms (seaweed is a general category, algae includes many forms, and coral is an animal that builds reefs), so kelp is the correct match.