Exploring the Intertidal

Check out the intertidal zone and its biodiversity!

Chlorophyta

The green algae are more closely related to vascular, land plants than any other type of algae. Only 10% of species are marine, while 90% are fresh water. Chlorophyll a and b give this group their bright green colour. Energy materials are stored in the chloroplast in the form of starch. Green algae in the tropics are similar from one area to another, but very different species can be seen in different cold regions. Some common intertidal species, such as Ulva (sea lettuce) and Enteromorpha can be used as food products. (for more click here).

Codium fragile (Dead Man's Fingers)
Description: Dark green. Velvety and spongy.
Range: Alaska to Mexico.
Habitat: On rocks and in tidepools. Mid intertidal to upper subtidal.
Cool Fact: This algae is made of only one, gigantic cell!

Ulva intestinalis (Sea Hair)
Description: Bright green. Thin, hollow blades.
Range: Aleutian Islands, Alaska to Mexico.
Habitat: Rocky shores. Upper to mid intertidal. Often in tidepools.
Cool Fact: Sometimes used to flavour stews!

Ulva fenestrata (Sea lettuce)
Description: Bright green. Flat blades with ruffled edges. Similar species, Ulva fenestrata has many small holes in blades.
Range: Bering Sea to Chile.
Habitat: Attached to rocks or epiphytic (on other species of algae). All intertidal zones.
Cool Fact: Can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can recover from being dried out during low tide.

see more about Chlorophyta!

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