Giant Kelp

Description:

this kelp grows to be very large and may have one of the fastest growth rates of any other species on earth. Can grow up to 1 ft. a day during our soupy summer here in the bay when sun and nutrients abound. Shown is the top portion of a kelp stipe.

Habitat:

Sub-tidal to 80ft. Needs rocky substrate to attach a holdfast to.

Notes:

This was detached from the actual individual and was floating around in a tidepool.