Rock Pooling: February 2013

Saturday, 2 February 2013

Common Seaweeds of the Shore- Kelps

Kelps include some the largest seaweed species. Predominantly subtidal they can form underwater forests and are recognized by their long flexible stipe, flat frond and large holdfast.

Below are images of kelps you may encounter at the low water mark and whilst snorkeling in the shallow subtidal around the UK:

Laminaria including Laminaria digitata , Laminaria hyperborea and Laminaria ochroleuca are the typical 'kelps'. They have a holdfast, stipe and a large flat frond that is divided into strips. Laminaria occur from the low water mark into the subtidal.

Laminaria in the subtidal.

Many species can be found within the hold fast of Lamiaria species, including the blue rayed limpet Patella pellucida.

The blue rayed limpet Patella pellucida within the holdfast.

Patella pellucida graze on the fronds.

Many species can be found within the hold fast of Lamiaria species, including Oysters (Anomiidae) and Starfish (Henricia oculata).

Saccorhiza polyschides is recognizable by the folds on the stipe close to the holdfast and occurs subtidally.

Dabberlocks (Alaria esculenta) Awaiting image

Bootlace weed (Chorda filum) Awaiting image

Sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima) Awaiting image

Rock Pooling Etiquette

Rock pooling is a fun and fascinating activity and it is important to respect the marine organisms you encounter.

The best time to go rock pooling is at low tide when the intertidal zone is exposed. The intertidal zone is the area of the shore that is covered and exposed by the sea as it rises and falls. It experiences daily fluctuations in environmental conditions and the creatures that live there will have
positioned themselves to reduce the extremes they must endure. Therefore it is important to return creatures to the place that you found them and to return any boulders or seaweeds you may have overturned in your pursuit.