Cartilaginous Branched Red Alga

Distribution : Mediterranean · Atlantic Ocean

Marine region

Words from old trades sometimes turn up in the names of marine species. One example is this branched red alga, also called “algue fuseau”, or spindle alga, in French. Its cylindrical branches narrow at regular intervals. Near the tips, the swollen sections crowd together to form little strings of beads, often reddish brown.

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Habitat

Rocky habitat

Depth

5-60 m

Group

Role

Primary producer

Average size

12 cm

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

This branching red alga (Chrysymenia ventricosa) has cylindrical, often swollen branches. The thallus, the algal body, consequently takes on a fleshy, uneven appearance.

Colour ranges from beige through pink to violet. Branches may be translucent, letting some light pass through.

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WHERE DOES IT LIVE?
WHAT DOES IT EAT?
HOW DOES IT REPRODUCE?
OUR OBSERVATIONS
ARTICLE

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Interactive food chain to explore the species’ feeding relationships
Natural history podcast and dive debrief
Infographic and illustrated summary profile

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