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DORIS recommends our site’s innovative, playful and interactive approach for taking your first steps in underwater biology.
DORIS is the reference website for underwater biology. It aims to record, illustrate and describe as many common and rare species as possible that can be seen while diving or along the shore in mainland and overseas French waters.
In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean · Red Sea · Indian Ocean · Pacific Ocean · Caribbean Sea
On well-lit rocky seabeds, the Sea coin catches the eye with its outline of small, articulated green discs. This inconspicuous alga shelters small animals and, after breaking down, contributes to the formation of calcareous sands.
Habitat
Rocky habitat
Depth
1-70 m
Group
Green alga
Role
Primary producer
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WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
This green alga is recognised by its flat, rounded segments, stacked on top of one another like a succession of small coins. Its colour is generally bright green, sometimes paler depending on conditions. The segments are slightly calcified, giving them a rigid yet fragile texture.
WHERE DOES IT LIVE?
It grows on hard seabeds or small solid supports in well-lit areas. It occurs from shallow water down to several dozen metres, always where light enables photosynthesis.
WHAT DOES IT EAT?
Like other algae, it makes its own material using light. It uses solar energy to transform substances dissolved in the water into nutrients needed for growth.
GO FURTHER WITH AMIGANSEAU
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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.
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