Hobbies And Interests
Green Algae
Green algae is found in various areas of the intertidal zone, including the low-tide zone. While algae lack typical plant elements such as stems, roots, and leaves, these organisms survive in this harsh environment because of their holdfasts, or root-like structures. This allows algae to attach to the ocean floor or to rocks, thus withstanding the ocean's constantly moving waves. There are many different types of green algae, including sea lettuce and gutweed.
Brown Algae
Brown algae, another plant commonly found in the intertidal zone, contains alginic acid which keeps the algae from drying out during low tides when plants are exposed to air. Brown algae thrive in the intertidal zone and include various species such as oar weed, gulfweed, and kelp. Giant kelp is a common type of brown algae, as well as the largest.
Red Algae
Red algae has a distinct reddish color and a crust-like texture. These seaweeds live in the low to upper intertidal areas. The most recognizable red algae is nori, which has purple to blackish blades. Nori is commonly harvested for consumption and is often used to wrap sushi or eaten in soup. This seaweed boasts numerous vitamins and healthy proteins.
Surfgrass
Surfgrass is a flowering marine plant. This plant has long, flat blades, and is bright green in color. It usually grows on rocks in dense beds. Surfgass can be found in low and shallow intertidal zones. Many marine animals rely on surfgrass including species of snails and fish, which live on or seek shelter under surfgrass.