The Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide on Kelp Growth using Nereocystis leutkeana

Abstract

Nereocystis leutkeana, or Bull kelp is a fundamental part of near shore marine ecosystems and as carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere increase, due to climate change, algae blooms grow larger resulting in higher concentrations of hydrogen sulfide being added into the ocean. This experiment shows a correlation between micromolar hydrogen sulfide concentration and a potential decline in growth in brown algae. It may also sow a potential resilience to mm concentrations of HS. this paper could further our understanding of kelp growth in association with rising HS levels in the ocean. Additionally, this study could inspire further research into the evolutionary connections between brown algae and terrestrial plants by comparing processes of photosynthesis in the presence of hydrogen sulfide.