DeepVariant AI Analyzes the Genome of Giant Kelp in Tasmania

In Tasmania, giant kelp populations now represent only 5% of historical levels. Google and CSIRO are deploying genomics and AI, via DeepVariant, to characterize kelp diversity and prepare for replanting with heat-tolerant specimens as part of the Digital Futures Initiative.

In Tasmania, only 5% of historical levels remain

Giant kelp forests protect coastlines, provide habitat, and support marine ecosystems, but their disappearance is accelerating worldwide due to ocean warming. In Tasmania, these forests now exist at just 5% of their former abundance. Google Australia's Digital Futures Initiative is supporting a restoration effort as COP31 kicks off this week.

Reference genomes published and DeepVariant trained

Two high-quality reference genomes for Australian giant kelp have been made public, forming a foundation for conservation genetics. Scientists have also modified Google’s open-source artificial intelligence tool DeepVariant to study the DNA of giant kelp.

600 specimens sequenced across 40 sites to guide replanting

Thanks to DeepVariant, the DNA of 600 wild individuals collected from 40 sites along the Tasmanian coastline has been sequenced. Google and CSIRO are conducting genetic work and laboratory crossbreeding experiments to restore giant kelp forests using specimens with increased genetic diversity and heat resistance.