Funnelweed (Padina gymnospora)

Also known as Brown Algae, Brown Seaweed, Curly Algae, Curly Seaweed, Fan Algae, Marine Algae

Description

Also known as Brown Algae, Brown Seaweed, Curly Algae, Curly Seaweed, Fan Algae, Marine Algae.

Found in shallow waters, growing on dead coral heads and in patch reefs, over lagoons and in tide-pools, of coral and rocky reefs. Funnel weed has a chalky appearance due to the presence of calcium carbonate on the upper surfaces.
Length - 20cm
Depth - 0-14m
Widespread Circumtropical

Brown algae can be found from shore and down to several hundred metres. This algae comes in varying shades of Yellowish brown to brownish black

As many as 9000 species of algae are spread across the worlds oceans, some can be as much as 30 metres across while others are just a slippery scum over rocks.
Algae grows wherever there is enough light and life supporting conditions.
They support a huge number of marine life both for food and as a home. (edit) Ref: https://www.sealifebase.org/summary/Padina-gymnospora.html

2 comments

  1. Posted by Bill O'Brien
    October 08, 2016 at 14:54 pm - 1 person found this useful.

    What is the origin of the name "Funnel Weed" used for several Padina species? Since its shape is similar to a funnel or trumpet (so "funnel" makes sense), the question is mainly about the use of the term "weed".

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