General Description

Lobed, smooth, broad and thin, flattened surface (sheet-like) as a single frond arising from holdfast. Holdfast at base is small with root-like (rhizoidal) extensions in lower cells. Grass green. Up to 15 cm long (thallus).

Biology

This green alga often grows on invertebrates and other algae/seagrass species. It is less common than other Ulva species. High numbers of this species form blooms seasonally and in areas of high nutrients such as near stormwater, stream run-off and sewerage outfalls.

Habitat

Intertidal and subtidal rocky reefs, common in shallow waters, to depth of 6 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Worldwide.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Green algae

Depth

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

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

15 cm

Diet

Photosynthetic - sunlight

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Identify

• Seaweeds and seagrasses

Conservation Status

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