Large-leaf Hanging Vine Alga

Description:

Photo take at -40 ft on a coral reef this is a very common algae in the Caribbean sea. Plants form long chains of rectangular-shaped, relative large, leaf-like, calcified segments, which are held together by a thin strand running through their centers. Strands may branch frequently and may reach a length of 60 cm. Segments green to yellowish green on top, underside often lighter. Segments nearly 2 cm in width.

Habitat:

Tend to grow in shaded areas of the reef, often hanging from ledge undercuts and along walls, down to 60 m. Found from Florida all the Caribbean Sea, central America to Brazil.