Winged Kelp (Pterygophora californica)
Key facts
- Scientific name
- Pterygophora californica
- Common name
- Winged Kelp
- Category
- Algae
- Family
- Alariaceae
- Genus
- Pterygophora
- Size
- 100–250 cm
- Depth
- 0–25 m
- IUCN status
- Least concern (LC)
- Danger level
- Harmless
- Habitats
- kelp-forest, rocky-reef
- Behaviours
- benthic
- Ocean zones
- Mediterranean
Description
Pterygophora californica reaches 2.5 m. Unique brown alga, main stipe with alternating lateral pinnules resembling wings. Habitat: California rocky zones 0-25 m, very common in Southern California. Few threats = LC. Excellent learning species to identify varied Laminariales.
Photo of Winged Kelp
Frequently asked questions
- How big is the Winged Kelp?
- Winged Kelp (Pterygophora californica) reaches 100–250 cm in length.
- At what depth can you find the Winged Kelp?
- Winged Kelp is found between 0–25 m deep.
- Is the Winged Kelp dangerous to divers?
- Danger level: Harmless.
- What is the conservation status of the Winged Kelp?
- IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
- Where can you find the Winged Kelp?
- Found in: Mediterranean.
Other species in the family Alariaceae
Sources
- Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 240750)
- Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
- Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 3196092)
- Conservation: IUCN Red List
- Encyclopedia: Wikipedia