SBC LTER: Reef: Long-term experiment: Kelp removal: Understory kelp allometrics

These data consist of measurements used to estimate the mass of individual adult Pterygophora californica and Laminaria farlowii at SBC LTER long-term kelp removal experiment sites. The mass of individual P. californica is estimated from the number of blades having a length > 30 cm, whereas the mass of L. farlowii is estimated from the length of its single blade. Measurements are recorded for up to 30 individuals of each species per 40 m x 2 m transect sampled in each sampling plot. These data are combined with allometric relationships established in the laboratory to provide non-destructive estimates of dry mass for the two species. The kelp removal experiment was initiated in 2008 at selected reef sites along the mainland coast of the Santa Barbara Channel. The following three giant kelp manipulations are maintained in sampling plots at each site: Control: Macrocystis pyrifera is left intact in a 2000 m 2 plot. Annual removal: Macrocystis pyrifera is removed from an adjacent 2000 m 2 plot once each winter and allowed to re-colonize over the course of the year. Continuous removal: Macrocystis pyrifera is removed from a 200 m 2 area within the 2000 m 2 plot on each sampling date.