Optimizing the initial cultivation stages of kelp <i>Ecklonia radiata</i> for restoration

Restoration of kelp forests typically relies on transplanting sporophylls to new locations and has limited application in regions with low remnant cover. Cultivated requires fewer is a potential alternative sustainable source transplants for large-scale restoration projects. Naturally sourced fertile sporophylls, however, are still required as “seed” stock cultivation practices, thus optimizing methods important minimize this dependency wild stocks. To assist the early-stage restoring beds laminarian Ecklonia radiata, we first tested effects sporophyll transport, storage, dehydration zoospore release. We then inoculum storage temperature abundance, lastly media sterilization concentration both settlement resulting gametophyte densities. Our results show, maximize release, should be transported dry inoculated within 3 hours. Inoculum can stored at 4°C without affecting abundance added sterilized lower concentrations reduce settled density improve post-settlement survival stage. This study provides practical recommendations initial procedures E. radiata. develop full life-cycle protocol purposes, future research focus sporophyte production, out-planting techniques.