Fameye speed up in. ” This is just one example of some species’ importance to the environment, from promoting biodiversity to boosting nutrient cycling. . In doing so, otters help preserve the rich web of marine life that depends on kelp, and by extension, the health of our oceans. 19 hours ago · A They act as predators of kelp forests. Jun 4, 2025 · Protecting urchin populations requires addressing these threats through targeted conservation efforts. But otters control the sea urchin population, allowing kelp to thrive. Jan 24, 2025 · With regard to kelp forests, sea otters control sea urchin populations by predation. Fact: Sea otters feed on sea urchins, which can devastate kelp forests when their populations are unchecked. Sea urchins eat kelp and, if there are too many sea urchins in an area, kelp forests, which provide homes for hundreds of species, can be destroyed. By feeding on these organisms, they help control algal populations, preventing overgrowth that can choke out other marine life. B They help control sea urchin populations. Sea urchins are a favorite food of the sea otter if they are locally abundant. This may include implementing fishing regulations to protect urchin predators, restoring damaged reef habitats, and developing strategies to prevent and manage disease outbreaks. As sea urchin populations decrease, grazing pressure decreases and kelp forests flourish. This is because sea otters help control sea urchin populations, which can otherwise decimate kelp beds. By preying on sea urchins, a voracious consumer of kelp, sea otters keep urchin populations in check, which allows kelp forests to thrive (Estes and Palmisano 1974). This grazing behavior is vital for the health of kelp forests, which serve as critical habitats for many other species, including fish and invertebrates. 6 days ago · If sea otters were to go extinct in regions where they are present, the health of local kelp forests would likely decline significantly. Jun 24, 2025 · When sea otters keep urchin populations in check, they prevent the overgrazing of kelp, allowing these underwater forests to flourish. Apr 8, 2024 · If sea urchin populations grow too much, they eat kelp to the point of destroying underwater forests. C They are top predators of fish. By maintaining a balanced sea urchin population, sea otters play a crucial role in the health of coastal ecosystems. Nov 17, 2018 · In contrast, biologists believe sea otters help to control the sea urchin population. Aug 26, 2025 · Without this keystone species, sea urchin populations would grow out of control and devour the kelp, leaving behind what scientists call “urchin barrens. hxc qxmupyb ixilgimv sjvg dahm otwu tasqua jplev rbzk fdeuiy