Ticklish Kelp

Ticklish kelp is a vital plant species that lines both reefs and sea beds, providing food, shelter and material for thousands of species including Humans and Merfolk. Varieties of Ticklish Kelp may differ in texture, colour, taste and preferred environment, but all of them move and slither randomly once above water. Market vendors must tie Ticklish Kelp down in order to sell it.

Basic Information

Genetics and Reproduction

From maturity, Ticklish Kelp releases 'sea blossom' when the waters become warm, which can make the sea sluggish and become a nuisance to small fish for breathing, and larger fish trying to eat the small ones. Some large fish are known to collect sea blossom and push it to the ground, causing the sea blossom to settle and bud into more kelp. Small fish are attracted to the spaces which are easier for them to breath, but then become hunted by large fish. Humans and Merfolk will also collect sea blossom for its fibres, using it to make clothes.

Growth Rate & Stages

Once the sea blossom is embedded in the ground or inside a fish, the kelp grows rapidly. If it has trapped a fish lung, the fish will eventually become heavy and will fall down to the surface half alive, supplying the Ticklish Kelp will food to help it grow.
By the time Ticklish Kelp is regarded as mature or 'adult', sub-boats, kelpbots and free divers carefully comb the kelp, brushing away loose strands to be taken to the surface. This is a mutual benefit for the species as loose strands can prevent growth or strangle the younger plants. Attempts at pulling the kelp from the seabed however can result in disastrous consequences. Such consequences have been known to sink entire fleets.

"Oh dear."

- The entire fleet of Taçya Beach.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Ticklish Kelp may feed on the fish caught in its vines or from the nutrition from the soil and sunshine. It's adaptability to the environment may be part of the reason why it is so abundant.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The many varieties of Ticklish Kelp can be used to make fibres in clothing, for parts in technology including cables and hardware, for food and for traditional medicine. It is regarded as a versatile plant that is so useful... It's almost as if it was made on Gaia on purpose for people to use.

by Pexels

Origin/Ancestry

Kelp

Lifespan

7 years

Conservation Status

Ticklish Kelp grows plentiful in most seas. Carefully removing loose Ticklish Kelp can help the species continue to grow, developing symbiosis relationships with the various species keen to have a nibble.

Geographic Distribution

• Gaia