The Marine Biome Algae and Seaweed

Algae Aquatic, photosynthetic organisms.

Algae Can be microscopic: Can be macroscopic: Diatoms. Drifters. Seaweed.

Seaweed Attached autotrophs. Strong, flexible bodies that easily absorb shock. Often covered in a mucus-like substance that lubricates them: Prevents them from drying out. Deters grazing animals.

Seaweed Fun Facts: About 7000 species of seaweeds have been classified. The largest seaweed can reach 62m in length.

Seaweed Classification Chlorophyta (green) Major pigment is chlorophyll.

Seaweed Classification Phaeophyta (tan or brown) Major pigment is fucoxanthio. This class includes kelp.

Seaweed Classification Rhodophyta (red or rose) Major pigment is phycobilins.

Seaweed Anatomy Holdfast: Frond: Blades: Small, anchor, root system. Branched or Tufted. Blades: Sheets or Filaments. Rounded or Pointed.

Seaweed The Wonderful World of Seaweeds

Human Uses for Seaweed Food Cosmetics Medicines Fertilizers Paper

Kelp Giant kelp is a type of brown algae.

Kelp Forests Giant kelp can grow as much as 300 feet in a single year. The tops reach the surface and form a floating mat. The kelp provides shelter and protection for many animals.

Kelp Forests Exist in areas: With cool coastal waters. Where sunlight can reach down. With a rocky sea floor. Examples: West coast of North America. Southern coast of Australia.

Kelp Forests Large biodiversity.

Fish-eating Anemone Leather Stars Kelpfish Wolf Eel

Sheephead Sea Horse Swell Shark Jellyfish Sea Lion

Kelp Jewels of the Sea Monterey Bay, California Bizarre Fish of Kelp Forests, BBC Earth Army of Sea Urchins, BBC Earth