Explore the Collection: Flora
Green, brown, and red algae are organisms that look like plants. They possess modified ‘roots’, which act as holdfasts allowing the algae to attach to hard surfaces and avoid being swept away by ocean currents. These organisms require light to photosynthesise, just like true plants. Worldwide, there are over 7 000 species of algae.
The flowering plants or angiosperms (Phylum: Magnoliophyta) include the land dwelling plants. However, a few groups are adapted to live underwater or along the shoreline of the coast. Two such groups are the seagrasses and the mangroves.
Algae and plants have an important role in the underwater environment. They provide a source of food and shelter for a range of marine animals. Algae and seagrass beds provide ‘nursery’ grounds for many fish species. These beds give the young fish a place to hide from predators.
Did you know?
There are two main types of marine flora. The algae, or seaweeds, and the flowering plants, which are more like the plants found growing on land.
Groups of Flora:
Click on any of the types of flora below to read more.
Green Algae
Green algae can range from single celled microscopic species to larger, plant-like forms, commonly referred to as seaweeds.
Read more about Green Algae…
Brown Algae
Brown algae, like red and green algae, can generally be distinguished by their colouration. Brown algae are commonly seen growing on coral reefs and rocky shores.
Read more about Brown Algae…
Red Algae
Red algae are distinguished by their colouration, which ranges from red to purple. They appear in single celled and larger, multi-celled, plant-like forms.
Read more about Red Algae…
Seagrasses
Although, seagrasses are very similar to the terrestrial plants, they have become adapted to live underwater. They can be found in many different habitats, including coral reefs and areas of soft sediment.
Read more about Seagrasses…
Mangroves
Mangroves are a specialised group of plants that are able to survive in waterlogged mud, which typically has a high level of salt. They have adaptations that aid in their survival in these harsh conditions.
Read more about Mangroves…
