How to Find Seaweed

There are hundreds of different kinds of seaweed -- also known as algae -- all around the world. They grow on rocks, stones, shells, wood, and almost every kind of surface in the saltwater from which seaweed receive their nourishment. Seaweed can only stand upright when supported by water. It clings onto surfaces with grippers called "holdfasts" which keep the seaweed firmly attached. Algae are divided into three main groups according to color --- green, brown and red. It also comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes, from seaweed that is so small and delicate you need a microscope to see it, to seaweed that is tall and tree-like.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bag
• Stone

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Find seaweed along rocky shores, or along the tide line on a sandy beach. The best time to look for seaweed is during low tide, so that they are exposed and easily collectible.

   • 2

     Place a large stone in the plastic bag, to keep it from blowing away while you collect the seaweed.

   • 3

     Pick seaweeds attached to rocks by holding near to the holdfasts and tugging gently, until the holdfasts release their grip. You can also collect those that have been ripped loose by stormy waves. These will be floating along the shore or washed up on the beach.

   • 4

     Place the seaweeds in the plastic bag.