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Algae, Brown
| Definition: |
Predominantly marine algae of the division Phaeophyta, having CHROMATOPHORES containing carotenoid pigments. ALGINATES and phlorotannins occur widely in all major orders. They are considered the most highly evolved algae because of their well-developed multicelluar organization and structural complexity. |
| Notes: |
GEN or unspecified; prefer specifics |
| Previously Indexed: |
Algae (1966-1970) |
Algae, Brown Categories.
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Ascophyllum - A BROWN ALGAE closely related to FUCUS. It is found attached to rocks and boulders on the middle shore, primarily in the North Atlantic basin. |
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Fucus - A genus of BROWN ALGAE in the family Fucaceae. It is found in temperate, marine intertidal areas along rocky coasts and is a source of ALGINATES. Some species of Fucus are referred to as KELP. |
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Kelp - Large, robust forms of brown algae (PHAEOPHYCEAE) in the order Laminariales. They are a major component of the lower intertidal and sublittoral zones on rocky coasts in temperate and polar waters. Kelp, a kind of SEAWEED, usually refers to species in the genera LAMINARIA or MACROCYSTIS, but the term may also be used for species in FUCUS or Nereocystis. |
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Laminaria - A genus of BROWN ALGAE in the family Laminariaceae. Dried pencil-like pieces may be inserted in the cervix where they swell as they absorb moisture, serving as osmotic dilators. |
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Macrocystis - A genus of BROWN ALGAE in the family Lessoniaceae, and one of the major forms of KELP. The species Macrocystis pyrifera, also known as giant kelp, is the largest of the marine algae. |
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Sargassum - One of the largest genera of BROWN ALGAE, comprised of more than 150 species found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate zones of both hemispheres. Some species are attached (benthic) but most float in the open sea (pelagic). Sargassum provides a critical habitat for hundreds of species of FISHES; TURTLES; and INVERTEBRATES. |
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Undaria - A genus of BROWN ALGAE, in the family Alariaceae, native to Japan, Korea, and China. The edible SEAWEED Undaria pinnatifida is also called wakame. |
Algae, Brown Definitions and Terms
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