A young giant kelp rises among mature fronds in one of Tasmania’s last remaining kelp forests. Once widespread along the coast, more than 95 per cent of these underwater forests have disappeared due to warming seas and changing ocean conditions. These underwater forests are biodiversity hotspots, providing food, shelter and nursery grounds for countless marine species. Today, each young kelp represents a glimmer of hope. Through restoration projects, kelp cultivation, planting programmes and ongoing research, scientists and conservationists are working to rebuild what has been lost.