Prof. Alejandra Gonzalez Vasquez1, Fadia Tala2, Julio Vasquez2
1Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, , Chile, 2Departamento de Biología Marina, Centro de InvestigaciónDesarrollo Tecnológico en Algas (CIDTA), Instituto Milenio en Socioecología Costera (SECOS), Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte., ,
While there is an extensive history of using kelp forests and ecosystems in Chile, there is currently little history of kelp restoration. Most efforts have been motivated to support the harvest of Macrocystis and Lessonia, which can reach 400,000 dry/tons and 10% of the world’s harvest. Harvest decreases wild populations and their associated ecosystem services valued at USD 54 million/hectare. Restocking efforts occur within the context of fisheries management (Law N°20.925). Macrocystis actions have been involved in long-line cultivation to obtain commercial biomass. These projects released hatchery-reared plants into the sea, and their costs/benefits analysis were led by collaborations between academics and kelp companies. Lessonia species occur on the rocky exposed intertidal, and thus restoration works with outplants on artificial substrates secured onto the benthos. These are typically partnerships between academics and fishery cooperatives and again are viewed as restocking management, maintained over short time scales and small extents. The success varied depending on methodology and season, but a major gap in Chile and indeed globally is the consideration of genetic composition. Recently, researchers have sought to increase stocking and restoration success by using chimeras of L. spicata and L. berteroana (PatentCL201701827). In the lab chimeras have improved temperature tolerance. In the field, chimeras increased survival, growth rate, and genetic diversity at pilot scales compared to homogenous plants, improving the success rate of restoration projections. This work highlights the need to synergistically consider genetic diversity, resilience, and climate change mitigation factors to ensure sustainable management and development.
Funding: FONDEFID20I10167, Packard2021-73304