Umbrella Algae (Acetabularia acetabulum)
Key facts
- Scientific name
- Acetabularia acetabulum
- Common name
- Umbrella Algae
- Category
- Algae
- Family
- Polyphysaceae
- Genus
- Acetabularia
- Size
- 3–8 cm
- Depth
- 0–30 m
- IUCN status
- Least concern (LC)
- Danger level
- Harmless
- Habitats
- sandy-bottom
- Behaviours
- benthic
- Ocean zones
- Asian Pacific, Caribbean, East Atlantic, Eastern Pacific, Macaronesia, Mediterranean
Description
Acetabularia acetabulum reaches 8 cm. Tiny specialized green alga (Chlorophyta), unique morphology: thin stipe topped flat disc umbrella/parasol shape. Mediterranean rocky & sandy reefs (0-30 m). Very important scientific symbiosis (cellular research). Least threatened = LC. Very memorable umbrella species morphology.
Photo of Umbrella Algae
Frequently asked questions
- How big is the Umbrella Algae?
- Umbrella Algae (Acetabularia acetabulum) reaches 3–8 cm in length.
- At what depth can you find the Umbrella Algae?
- Umbrella Algae is found between 0–30 m deep.
- Is the Umbrella Algae dangerous to divers?
- Danger level: Harmless.
- What is the conservation status of the Umbrella Algae?
- IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
- Where can you find the Umbrella Algae?
- Found in: Asian Pacific, Caribbean, East Atlantic, Eastern Pacific, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.
Similar species
- Dictyota dichotoma - Forkweed
- Sargassum vulgare - Common sargassum
- Codium bursa - Ball alga
- Halimeda tuna - Halimeda
- Posidonia oceanica - Neptune grass
- Cymodocea nodosa - Little Neptune grass
Sources
- Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 494795)
- Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
- Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 5273029)
- Conservation: IUCN Red List
- Encyclopedia: Wikipedia