How does kelp reproduce? How to reproduce by spores

Kelp reproduction method

Kelp is not like terrestrial plants that bloom and bear fruit. It is a lower plant with a unique way of reproduction. Kelp has no stems or branches, only long and slender leaves. It does not bloom or bear fruit. Therefore, it cannot be propagated by common methods such as sowing, cuttings, leaf cuttings, and division, but instead it reproduces by spores.

Common propagation methods of kelp

Kelp reproduces by spores. Initially, as the kelp leaves grow, they will develop many pocket-like sporangia, inside which many spores will grow. When mature, the sporangia will burst and the spores will swim out. These spores swim around in the water, and when they swim to the rocks on the seabed, they will settle down and grow into a new kelp in a new place.

The growth temperature of kelp is 0 to 13 degrees, with 2 to 7 degrees as the optimum temperature. Kelp is a light-loving plant that requires sufficient light and absorbs nutrients from seawater. Due to the different turbidity or transparency of seawater, the water layers suitable for growth are deep and shallow. It usually grows well in sea areas with high flow rates, and pests and diseases will appear in calm sea areas. Generally, a flow rate of 50 to 80 cm/s is more suitable.