Brown Algae: Phylum Phaeophyta

1
Brown Algae Phylum Phaeophyta

• Brown algae belong to phylum (or division)
  Phaeophyta
• Color varies from olive green to dark brown, but
  are classified by having a preponderance of
  yellow-brown photosynthetic pigments,
  particularly fucoxanthin
• Nearly all 1,500 species are marine
• Include the largest and most complex seaweeds

2
Brown Algae Phylum Phaeophyta

• Many species have gas-filled floats
  (pneumatocysts) e.g., rockweeds or wracks,
  Sargassum weed

http//www.physorg.com/news100350969.html
3
Brown Algae Phylum Phaeophyta

• The kelps are the most complex and largest of all
  brown algae
• Consist of a single, or numerous large blade(s)
• The stipes of giant kelp, Macrocystis can reach
  lengths of 100 m and
  grow 1 ft per day!
• Provides food and
  shelter for many other
  marine organisms

http//www.rmrs.nau.edu/usamab/general20descripti
on20channel20islands.htm
4
KELP!!!
5
Kelp community with sea otters
http//www.otterproject.org/atf/cf/7B1032ABCB-19F
9-4CB6-8364-2F74F73B30137D/Otter_image4.jpg
Kelp community without sea otters
http//sbc.lternet.edu/sites/biome_kelpforest.html
http//blackcormorant.blogs.com/photos/uncategoriz
ed/kelpurchins_415_030.jpg