The Essential Rhythm 5/21/23: Does rockweed harvest damage intertidal ecosystems?

Producer/Host: Sarah O’Malley

This episode summarizes the findings of Johnston et al (2023) showing that commercial rockweed harvest as practiced in Maine results in on average reduced height but pre harvest levels of biomass one year post harvest. Different implications based on management perspectives are noted.

Johnston, Elliot et al 2023 Bed-scale impact and recovery of a commercially important intertidal seaweed, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 561:151869

About the host:
Sarah O’Malley is an ecologist, naturalist and science communicator passionate about deepening her listeners’ experiences with the natural world. She teaches biology and sustainability at Maine Maritime Academy and is currently collaborating on a guide book to the intertidal zone in the Gulf of Maine.