General Description

Multiple radial branches at base giving rise to several long primary branches. Branchlets (ramuli) are thin, short and can be cylindrical (terete), simple, branched or leaf-like in shape. Lower primary branches are denuded with short spines (muricate). Single or chain-like floats (vesicles) occur within branchlets and are either egg (ovoid) or spindle (fusiform) in shape. Medium brown. Up to 60 cm long (thallus).

Biology

The tropical form of this species is more "leafy" than the southern form which is usually only leafy at the base.

Habitat

Tidal pools, shallow subtidal areas, sheltered coasts, to depth of 1 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Indian Ocean and Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Brown algae

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

60 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