kelp

views updated

kelp
1. Brown seaweeds that grow below the low-tide level. Large brown algae (e.g. Laminaria species) which anchor themselves firmly to the sea-bed are typical. In some places they are harvested for use as fertilizer, either directly or after burning or processing into a liquid manure.

2. The ash obtained by burning various large, brown seaweeds, used as an agricultural fertilizer and as a source of iodine, potash, and soda.

More From encyclopedia.com