Kelp is an extremely productive plant, and according to the University of Georgia, some can grow up to 50 meters by as much as 50 to 60 cm a day. Seagrass does not grow anywhere near the height kelp does, but it can form extensive and dense meadows.
When seagrass forms, the extensive meadows they are capable of producing help to stabilize essential sediments against erosion. Kelp can help to alter water currents in a positive manner while at the same time providing a picture-perfect nursery environment for the creatures that inhabit it.
According to the University of Georgia, large concentrations of kelp are called kelp beds, while large concentrations of seagrass are called seagrass meadows.
Kelp and seagrass depend heavily on light for productivity and growth. Seagrass has below-ground structures that store minerals, helping it to not immediately respond to increases and decreases of light. Kelp does not have below-ground structures. Kelp is immediately affected by an increase or decrease in the amount of light seen.
While kelp and seagrass have many differences, the one thing they have in common is the fact they are highly beneficial to the ocean's ecosystem. Many precautions have been taken to protect the population of kelp and seagrass in coastal environments around the world.