General Description

An alga that resembles a cactus, with large club-like beads (vesiculate) arranged in an opposing pattern on one plane (distichous) of the main axis that arise from rhizomes (roots). Medium to dark green. Up to 40 cm long (thallus).

Biology

The shape and height of this bulky alga can vary somewhat due to the intensity of wave exposure in the area. Some species of nudibranchs are associated with this alga, having a body that closely resembles the uniquely shaped beads. Tropical species of this genus are used for ornamental decoration in household aquariums.

Habitat

Within and adjacent to seagrass beds, in tidal pools in areas of rough water, and sandy-mud sediments in rough and calm waters, to depth of 38 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Seagrass meadows

Distribution guide

Southern Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Green algae

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

40 cm

Diet

Photosynthetic - sunlight

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Identify

• Seaweeds and seagrasses

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed