We can see macroalgal communities in a coastal region, which are called macroalgal bed. In particular, macroalgal bed composed by large brown algae such as kelp and fucoid
(Figs. 1-3 below) have high primary productivity, which synthesize organic matter from inorganic matter (e.g., nitrogen and carbon) and form complex three-dimensional structure on the coast. Thus, they form biogenic habitat for various species including commercial species (Figs. 4-6 below). Recently, macroalgal beds have also attracted by high rate of carbon sink (i.e., blue carbon). In Japan, seaweeds have been utilized for a long time, and also macroalgal beds are used as fisheries ground for sea urchin, abalone, and turban snail. Conservation of macroalgal beds is needed because they support coastal biodiversity and are closely connected to human life.
