SBC LTER: Reef: Long-term experiment: Algal Biomass

These data are taxon-specific estimates of macroalgal standing biomass
(grams dry mass m -2 ) recorded in 40 m x 2 m
transects in of each sampling plot at SBC LTER's long-term kelp
removal experiment sites. Estimates of macroalgal biomass are derived
from measurements of abundance that are recorded as either density or
percent cover. Density data are combined with allometric measurements
to yield estimates of standing dry mass for taxa whose abundance is
measured as density. Mean dry mass per individual is also reported for
taxa whose abundance is measured as density. Taxon-specific data of
percent cover are converted to biomass using relationships derived
from field measurements of percent cover and laboratory measurements
of dry mass. Data are updated annually. The kelp removal experiment was initiated in 2008 at four 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.