SoCal algae question

[kelpmermaid]

maripelta rotata? Is that possible? I'm not sure it's a match on the iridescence, though.

 

[MaxBottomtime]

Or shape. These are circular, about three inches diameter. I'm amazed that something I see nearly every dive is so difficult ti I.D.

 

[drbill]

You've got that right. I think we need to collect a sample in order to get a positive ID.

Yep, many species of algae can only be positively ID'ed by looking at cell and tissue structure or reproductive materials. They also are often polymorphic (take on many different forms) and show a lot of plasticity (variations on shape) due to environmental characteristics.

Dr. Bill