Dive.Explo360.fr

scientific endorsement
ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Sea lettuce

Distribution : Mediterranean · Atlantic Ocean · Indian Ocean · Pacific Ocean · Caribbean Sea · Black Sea

On the intertidal shore or in shallow water, Sea lettuce catches the eye with broad, soft-green sheets swaying with the waves. Very common on coasts, it shelters many small animals and often reflects the nutrient richness of its environment.

Habitat of Sea lettuce Habitat
Sand, Detrital bottom
Depth range of Sea lettuce Depth
0-20 m
Biological group of Sea lettuce Group
Ecological role of Sea lettuce Role
Primary producer

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

Sea lettuce is a thin, flexible green alga formed by a flat, blade-like thallus resembling a lettuce leaf. Its structure is very thin and irregularly wavy, attached to the substrate by a small disc or adhesive area.Its colour varies from bright green to yellowish green depending on light and environmental conditions. Fragile and light, it is easily moved by the current and can readily detach from its support.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It develops in nutrient-rich coastal areas, attached to varied supports such as rocks, sea walls, shells or artificial structures.It may also be observed floating freely once detached. It occurs in marine environments and sometimes in brackish areas.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Like all algae, it produces its own organic matter through photosynthesis. It uses light, carbon dioxide and nutrients dissolved in the water to grow.

GO FURTHER WITH AMIGANSEAU

Unlock the full profile

Deepen your knowledge with the exclusive chapters and interactive resources included in an AMIGANSEAU licence.

Choose my licence
  • HOW DOES IT REPRODUCE?
  • OUR OBSERVATIONS
  • UNDERSTAND THE SPECIES

Also included in the full profile

  • Advanced navigation between description, ecological context, observations and behaviour
  • Interactive food chain to explore the species’ feeding relationships
  • Infographic and illustrated summary profile
An active licence gives access to enriched profiles and AMIGANSEAU exploration tools.
Sea lettuce

Watch this species in filmed dives

Other species — Green alga

Green algae (Caulerpa cylindracea) Mermaid's Wineglass Mediterranean Green Sea Ball Sea coin Sailor's eyeball

Same habitat and depth

Sandy seabed species Detrital seabed species

Same ecological role and depth

Producer species

🧠 Understand the species

What is this species’ ecological role?

AMIGANSEAU Explorer Premium

Access enriched species profiles with advanced content (audio, infographics and detailed articles).

Explore all species easily through a single interface.

Enjoy a smooth, fast learning experience suited to every level.

🔒 The full profile is available with a paid subscription only.

Discover licences
DEPTH HABITAT PHYLA ECOLOGICAL ROLE

From recognition to understanding

After recognising a marine species, watch it in its environment in the diving videos. Articles and learning paths help you understand its habitat and its relationships with other organisms; games help you remember your discoveries.