Kelp vs seaweed: What are the main differences between these oceanic plant species?
Seaweed and kelp both are marine algae species. Kelp belongs to the subspecies of seaweed. In other words, all kelp falls under the category of seaweed, but not all seaweed qualifies as kelp.
To truly grasp the distinctions in the kelp vs seaweed comparison, we must delve deeper into their habitats, sizes, colors, and uses.
8 Differences between Kelp vs Seaweed
| Difference | Kelp | Seaweed |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Classification | Specific type of large brown algae | Broad term encompassing various species |
| 2. Color | Mainly brown or olive-green | Various colors, including green, red, brown |
| 3. Size & Growth | Generally larger, up to 150 feet | Varies in size from small to large |
| 4. Habitat | ||
| – Water Depth | Prefers deeper ocean environments | Occupies shallow and deep areas |
| – Water Salinity | Exclusive to saltwater, found in cooler regions | Can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater |
| – Water Temperature | Found in both temperate and tropical waters | Thrives in various water temperature ranges |
| – Diversity | Predominantly in areas with hard substrates | Inhabits diverse environments |
| 5. Environmental Role | Forms underwater forests, vital marine habitats | Efficient carbon storage, aids in climate change mitigation |
| 6. Uses | Valuable in food, cosmetics, fertilizers, animal feed, industrial applications, and wastewater treatment | Also used in similar applications, but less commonly in cosmetics and industrial uses |
| 7. Health Benefits | Rich source of iodine and calcium, supports thyroid health, strong bones, and teeth | Offers prebiotic fiber, boosts immune system, and provides antioxidants for health |
| 8. Carbon Storage | Rapid growth efficiently absorbs and stores substantial carbon | Stores carbon but at a slightly lower scale and pace |
1. Classification
Seaweed is a broad term that encompasses various marine algae, while kelp is a specific type of large brown algae.
Encompassing over 10,000 marine-based plant and algae species, including well-known brown seaweeds like Ascophyllum nodosum.
In contrast, sea kelp, while part of the seaweed family, represents the largest subgroup, noted for its substantial size and typically categorized as brown seaweed.
2. Color
Seaweed typically appears in a variety of colors, including green, red, and brown, whereas kelp is mainly brown or olive-green in color.
Seaweed appears in a diverse spectrum. Those nearer to the water’s surface often sport green hues, courtesy of chlorophyll, akin to sea lettuce. Yet, seaweed’s color palette doesn’t stop there; it can include shades of red and brown due to pigments like phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, fucoxanthin, and phlorotannin.
In contrast, sea kelp, a subgroup within the seaweed family, is primarily associated with brown shades. Their distinctive coloration arises from carotenoid pigments like fucoxanthin and phlorotannin. This brown hue signifies their adeptness at capturing optimal light for photosynthesis in deeper, dimly lit ocean environments.
3. Size & Growth Rate
Seaweed can vary significantly in size, from tiny microalgae to larger species. Kelp, on the other hand, is generally larger, often growing up to 150 feet in length.
Kelp tends to grow faster than many types of seaweed, which can be important for maintaining coastal biodiversity.
4. Habitat
The habitat of kelp and seaweed is a key factor that sets them apart in the underwater world. Both of these marine plants thrive in various aquatic environments, but their preferences and adaptations vary.
Water Depth
Both, kelp and seaweed are skilled at adapting to different water depths. While some species of seaweed prefer shallower areas closer to the water’s surface, others venture into deeper regions. This flexibility allows them to occupy a range of niches in the underwater ecosystem. Though, kelp tends to prefer deeper ocean waters.
Water Salinity
Seaweed can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, including rivers and lakes (but only if they are not among the most polluted rivers in the world). Kelp, however, is exclusive to saltwater and is commonly found in cooler coastal regions.
Water Temperature
The adaptability of kelp and seaweed extends to water temperature as well. These marine plants can be found in waters that vary in temperature. Some species thrive in cooler, temperate waters, while others flourish in warmer, tropical environments.
Diversity
Seaweed species inhabit diverse environments, from rocky shores to sandy bottoms. Kelp, however, predominantly thrives in so-called kelp forests, in areas with hard substrates, like rocky coastlines.
5. Environmental Role
Kelp and seaweed, while both marine vegetation, differentiate themselves in their environmental roles.
Kelp forms intricate underwater forests, acting as vital habitats for a diverse array of marine creatures, akin to terrestrial forests on land. These kelp forests display remarkable productivity, resembling rainforests, as they purify water, cycle nutrients, and help safeguard coastlines.
On the other hand, seaweed, a master of carbon storage, efficiently captures atmospheric carbon, aiding in the fight against climate change. The distinct roles of kelp and seaweed emphasize their respective significance in marine ecosystems and environmental preservation.
6. Uses
Food & Nutrient Content
Both kelp and seaweed are nutrition powerhouses, commonly featured in global cuisine. They offer iodine for thyroid health, high calcium for strong bones, and antioxidants to combat cancer.
The only problem: Seaweed products, such as seaweed gelatin (more commonly known as agar agar) are more expensive compared to their traditional alteratives. The reasons why sustainable product are more expensive is because no chemicals are used during the production process and wages are higher. Plus: There is a high demand and little supply. Unfortunately organic seaweed is no exception here.
Cosmetics
Seaweed extracts are popular in skincare products due to their hydrating and antioxidant properties, promoting skin health. However, kelp not so much.
For those looking to make their entire dental routine more eco-friendly, you can explore 7 Ways to Make Your Dental Routine More Eco-Friendly, for tips on sustainable oral care practices.
Fertilizers
Processed into plant fertilizers, seaweed and kelp enhance soil with vital nutrients, providing an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers.
Animal Feed
Both of these marine plants contribute essential nutrients to animal feed, supporting livestock growth and aquaculture health.
Industrial Uses
Both kelp and seaweed, but especially kelp is used in several industrial applications, such as in manufacturing paints, adhesives, and textiles. Seaweed is often used in foods like sushi and snacks, while kelp is a source of alginates used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Wastewater Treatment
Seaweed, but particularly kelp, aids in detoxifying contaminated water sources by absorbing heavy metals, contributing to cleaner water and a healthier ecosystem.
7. Health Benefits
Kelp offers a rich source of iodine critical for thyroid health and regulation of hormones. Additionally, its higher calcium content promotes strong bones and teeth.
In contrast, seaweed contributes prebiotic fiber to support gut health and strengthen the immune system.
Moreover, both kelp and seaweed deliver valuable antioxidants, combating free radicals that could potentially lead to cancer and age-related issues.
8. Carbon Storage
Kelp and seaweed demonstrate distinct strengths in carbon storage.
While both play vital roles, kelp stands out with its rapid growth, efficiently absorbing substantial amounts of carbon and storing it underwater. This exceptional capability contributes significantly to climate change mitigation efforts.
On the other hand, seaweed, with its diverse range of species, also stores carbon but at a slightly lower scale and pace.
The distinctions between kelp and seaweed in terms of carbon storage highlight their individual roles in preserving our planet’s environmental balance. In the kelp vs. seaweed comparison, both reveal their combined importance as a nature-based solution to climate change.
FAQs
What’s the difference between seaweed and kelp?
Seaweed is a broad term encompassing various marine algae, while kelp is a specific subgroup of seaweed known for its size and habitat.
What does seaweed include?
Seaweed includes a vast array of marine macroalgae, comprising over 10,000 species that draw nutrients from water rather than soil.
Are kelp and seaweed the same thing?
No, kelp and seaweed are not identical. While kelp falls under the seaweed category, they have distinct characteristics, including habitat, size, and color.
Can you eat seaweed and kelp?
Yes, both seaweed and kelp are edible and feature prominently in global cuisines, particularly in Japanese and Chinese dishes.
Is kelp or seaweed better for you?
Kelp, with its unique attributes and nutritional profile, offers certain advantages, such as iodine content essential for thyroid health.
What type of seaweed is kelp?
Kelp belongs to the brown seaweed category, characterized by its brown coloration.
Can I use dried seaweed instead of kelp?
Dried seaweed can serve as a substitute for kelp in various culinary applications, providing a similar marine essence.
Is seaweed meal the same as kelp powder?
Seaweed meal and kelp powder have slight variations in composition, with kelp powder typically being derived from brown seaweed.
Is kelp or seaweed used in sushi?
Red seaweed, often referred to as nori, is typically used to wrap sushi rolls. It’s a specific type of seaweed distinct from kelp.
Does kelp taste like seaweed?
Yes, kelp maintains the characteristic taste of seaweed, encompassing a savory, marine flavor profile. These answers shed light on the nuances of kelp and seaweed, helping you navigate their distinctions and culinary applications.
