"Sea Otters' Role in Preventing California Kelp Declines Revealed in New Study"

A new study published in the journal PLOS Climate reveals that the recovery of sea otter populations in California over the past century has played a crucial role in preventing widespread declines in kelp forests. The research, conducted by Monterey Bay Aquarium scientists, demonstrates that sea otters' presence has enhanced the resilience of kelp forests, particularly along the central coast, where their population growth compensated for kelp losses in other regions. The study underscores the importance of conservation efforts for sea otters and suggests their reintroduction to historical habitats as a potential nature-based solution for restoring kelp forests and their ecological benefits in California and beyond.