Why are kelp forests considered important to our understanding of marine ecosystems?

A kelp forest is an ecosystem in itself. Many animals use these massive forests to shelter their young from predators. Other animals feed off of the kelp plants. When you understand how marine life lives with the kelp forests you can begin to understand the big picture.

Kelp forest are an underwater biome, that cover about 25% of the surface of the world's coastlines. Example of Anacapa Island, California

Explanation:

They are physically formed by microalgae. These forests provide unique habitats for marine organisms and hence are a source for understanding marine ecology. They are essential for navigators and provide sustenance opportunities, recreational activities, and all ecosystem services. However these ecosystems re now degrading due to the impact of humans upon their environment. One such concern is the impact of overfishing. Globally kelp forests are distributed around the world near the shorelines. Most of the kelp forest organisms have a gas-filled bladder that is usually located at the base of the fronds near the stripes. Which provides them buoyancy and helps maintain their upright position.