General Description

Long wavy central compressed stalk (stipe) with dense branches occurring in an opposite pattern on either side of the branch (distichous) and facing backwards (retroflex). Secondary branches have an irregular alternative branching pattern giving rise to tufted branchlets (ramuli) which are simple or branched appearing bumpy with thin ends. Vesicles are round to oval in shape attached by a short stalk (petiole) and are present (usually abundant) in calm water forms only. Holdfast at base is a simple and disc-conical shaped. Light to dark brown. Up to 80 cm long (thallus).

Biology

This is the most common Cystophora species on southern Australian coasts. It grows near-shore in waters just below the low tide level.

Habitat

Subtidal rocky reefs, moderate the rough coasts, to depth of 5 m.

Reefs

Distribution guide

Southern Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Brown algae

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

80 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