Gutweed is a mass of bright green, inflated tubes, often with pinched-in ‘waists’ along its length. Fronds are typically unbranched.

Behaviour

Gutweed is a common seaweed found on all UK shores and in many different habitats, including rock pools, sand, mud and even shells and other seaweeds! It is often seen with bubbles of air trapped inside its long fronds which have the look of intestines, hence its name. If detached, Gutweed can create large floating masses, buoyed by the gas in their inflated tubular fronds. Dense growths of Gutweed provide shelter for many other creatures, with their moist fronds providing a low tide refuge on the high shore.

Size

Length: up to 40cm Frond width: 6-18mm

Status

Common.

Distribution

Found on all UK coasts.

When to see

January to December.

Facts

This fast-growing species reproduces quickly and can turn water green with the release of masses of gametes and spores. It is also known as Mermaids hair!