Kelp anchors look like beach ramen - Holdfasts!

How does kelp stay in place? 🤔
In rough ocean waves, how does kelp not slide all over the place? It’s all because of their holdfasts!

Holdfasts are specialized structures which act as kelp roots (they’re not actually roots), providing a firm anchor to grow and thrive.

Kelp holdfasts are tough and rubbery! They can grip onto rocks and other hard surfaces. They are incredibly strong 💪🏼 and can withstand intense ocean currents and waves 🌊 .

Some species of kelp can grow up to 100 feet tall and have holdfasts that are more than a foot in diameter!

Holdfasts are not actually roots - they don't absorb water or nutrients like plant roots do. Instead, kelp absorb nutrients directly from the surrounding water using their fronds.

Next time you come across a kelp forest, remember those holdfasts are what keep them in place 🌊🌿