General Description

Fully (complinately) branched with branches arranged on each side of one axis (pinnate). Branches have regular flexible joints (intergeniculum). Arises from a calcified crust (crustose). Red-purple through to fading grey. Up to 6 cm long (thallus).

Biology

This species name "officinalis" refers to use of this seaweed in medicine, as with other species that contain that name. It was used in early Europe to expel intestinal worms and it is still used in medicine today when dried and converted to a substance used in bone grafting.

Habitat

Sublittoral (low intertidal), tidal pools and subtidal rock reef, exposed coasts, to depth of 19 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Worldwide.

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

6 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