General Description

Resembles small, two dimensional pine trees, with tips tapering upward. Central stalk (stipe) 3-4mm across with alternate branches (both sides to 6 cm across). Branchlets (ramuli to 3 mm long) cover all parts of the alga (stipe, branches, stolon). Dark green. Up to 40 cm long (thallus).

Biology

This beautiful and delicate alga is commonly found in rock pools and moderately exposed rocky reefs. Tropical species of this genus are used for ornamental decoration in household aquariums

Habitat

Subtidal rocky reefs and tidal pools, in shallow waters with rough-moderate wave action, to depth of 40 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Seagrass meadows

Distribution guide

New Zealand and 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

Recorded in Australia

Identify

• Seaweeds and seagrasses

Conservation Status

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