General Description

Broad lance to strap-like shaped blades arising from a short slender and compressed stem (stipe). Tapering at tip (apex). Secondary blades can arise from blade edges (margins) as well as stem. Smaller side projections can also occur along blade edges. Blades erect or parallel to substratum (decumbent). Numerous spots/lumps present on surface when reproductive. Holdfast small and disc-like (discoid). Dark red-purple to yellow-brown. Up to 40 cm long (thallus).

Biology

This seaweed has a lustrous sheen when dried.

Habitat

Lower intertidal and shallow subtidal areas, sheltered to moderate waters.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Mexico, New Zealand and Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Red algae

Depth

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

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

40 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