The Falkland Islanders, most of whom are of Welsh or Scottish descent, are nicknamed kelpers because the islands are surrounded by large seaweeds called kelp.[1][2] This term is not used much by themselves, largely because it is used in a derogatory manner by Argentines; most prefer "Falkland Islanders" or even "Bennies", a nickname given to them by British soldiers during and after the 1982 war.
The Falklands economy was formerly based on agriculture, mainly sheep farming, and this resource was harvested to form mulch to feed their sheep.[3]
The Control of Kelp Ordinance 1970 makes provision for the licensing of seaweed harvesting and export.[4]
