Conservation of Macroalgae: Strategies and Challenges in Changing Habitats

Marine ecology research increasingly recognizes macroalgae as foundational organisms within coastal and mesophotic habitats, where they play key roles in structuring complex ecosystems. The latest evidence highlights that macroalgal communities, such as kelp forests and rhodolith beds, support incredible species diversity and foster essential ecosystem services—ranging from nursery grounds for commercially valuable fish species to the sustenance of harvesting industries and local livelihoods. However, simultaneous pressures from pollution, habitat modification, overexploitation, invasive species, and climate change have led to significant declines in macroalgal species diversity and extensive habitat loss. Despite a growing number of studies documenting these losses and their consequences, critical gaps persist in our understanding of the dynamic relationships between anthropogenic activities, macroalgal ecosystem services, and effective conservation frameworks. Ongoing debates focus on the most effective management strategies and the integration of traditional knowledge, with few international policies targeting wild macroalgal habitats directly.This Research Topic aims to foster integrative research that bridges macroalgal conservation science with an understanding of their ecological, economic, and social value. The main objective is to identify and synthesize knowledge that will inform the protection, restoration, and sustainable management of macroalgal habitats. In particular, this topic seeks to generate evidence-based proposals for marine protected areas and targeted management interventions, stimulate the development of nature-based and community-driven solutions, and facilitate collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and traditional resource users. By highlighting the intersection of conservation, sustainable use, and climate change mitigation or adaptation, this Research Topic aspires to chart pathways for safeguarding both macroalgal biodiversity and the livelihoods dependent upon it.Submissions should address the interdisciplinary boundaries of macroalgal conservation, with a focus on actionable connections to sustainable human activities and policy frameworks. Contributions may range in scale from local case studies to global syntheses, as long as they elucidate opportunities and challenges in managing macroalgal habitats. To gather further insights in this area, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Community-based conservation strategies- Climate change adaptation strategies for the conservation of macroalgal habitats- Climate change mitigation strategies based on macroalgal conservation- Nature-based solutions for the protection of macroalgal habitats- Farming and harvesting practices related to macroalgal conservation- Exploration and management activities of macroalgal habitats for nature-based tourism Topic editors: Claudia Santiago Karez, Mutue Fujii Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78136/conservation-of-macroalgae-strategies-and-challenges-in-changing-habitats