Sargassum polyphyllum
| Sargassum polyphyllum | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Clade: | Diaphoretickes |
| Clade: | SAR |
| Clade: | Stramenopiles |
| Phylum: | Gyrista |
| Subphylum: | Ochrophytina |
| Class: | Phaeophyceae |
| Order: | Fucales |
| Family: | Sargassaceae |
| Genus: | Sargassum |
| Species: | S. polyphyllum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Sargassum polyphyllum | |
Sargassum polyphyllum is a species of brown (class Phaeophyceae) macroalgae or limu (seaweed) in the order Fucales.[1]
Description[edit]
Sargassum polyphyllum, or limu kala, consists of thin, rough, wavy blades and a firm thallus.[2] Its height can range anywhere from 4 to 70 centimeters.[3] Sargassum polyphyllum is versatile and resilient enough to survive in areas such as harsh intertidal zones.[3]
Distribution and habitat[edit]
Species of Sargassaceae can be found worldwide. However, Sargassum polyphyllum is endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago. They can be found in intertidal pools and in depths of 75 meters below.[4]
Human use and cultural significance[edit]
In Hawaiian culture, limu kala is involved in certain religious practices such as asking for forgiveness and certain hula. It is also used in food, as fish bait, and traditional medicine.[5]
References[edit]
- ^ "WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Sargassum polyphyllum J.Agardh, 1848". www.marinespecies.org. Retrieved 2022-09-09.
- ^ Philippoff, Joanna; Wood, Caroline; Morishige, Kanoe; La Valle, Florybeth F.; Wood, Matthew; Faucci, Anushcka (2018). A Field Guide To Hawaii’s Coastal Organisms: Algae and Invertebrates. College of Education University of Hawaii at Manoa. ISBN 9781583511657.
- ^ a b "Sargasssum polyphyllum". www.hawaii.edu. Retrieved 2023-03-06.
- ^ Abbott, Isabella Aiona (2004). Marine green and brown algae of the Hawaiian Islands. John M. Huisman, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi: Bishop Museum Press. ISBN 1-58178-030-3. OCLC 52929144.
- ^ Huisman, John M. (2007). Hawaiian reef plants. Isabella Aiona Abbott, Celia Marie Smith, University of Hawaii at Manoa. Sea Grant College Program. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi: University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program. ISBN 1-929054-04-1. OCLC 123040861.