One of the longest seaweeds native to the UK, thongweed helps create a beautiful underwater forest to rival that of any on the land! Button or mushroom like projections appear up to 2cm wide, from which long, thin, green-brown straps grow for up to 2m, branching into two as they go.

Behaviour

This common brown seaweed, grows up to 2m long and has two distinct stages. It starts off as a tiny olive-green button attached to the rock, before long strap-like reproductive fronds grow rapidly between February and May.

Size

2m long.

Status

Common.

Distribution

All coasts of Britain and Ireland.

When to see

February – November.

Facts

This species lives for 2-3 years and only reproduces once before dying!