Brown Algae of Zihuatanejo

CLASS PHAEOPHYCEAE

-Kelp, Diatoms, and Allies (Kingdom Chromista)

-Phylum Ochrophyta

-Brown Algae (Class Phaeophyceae)

-Subclass Dictyotophycidae

-Order Dictyotales

-Family Dictyotaceae

-Tribe Dictyoteae

-Y-branched Algae (Genus Dictyota)

-Forked Ribbons (Dictyota dichotoma)

The Forked Ribbons (Dictyota dichotoma) is a species of brown algae in the family Dictyotaceae. It is named for its distinctive forked, ribbon-like fronds and is commonly found in shallow marine environments. Coloration: Varies from olive-green to brown, sometimes with a bluish or iridescent sheen underwater. Texture: Soft but somewhat leathery and flexible.

Range

Widely distributed in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide.
Occurs in the eastern Pacific from the Gulf of California south along the Pacific coast of Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Found along the Pacific coast of Guerrero, including the Zihuatanejo region, on suitable rocky reefs and coastal habitats.

Habitat

Grows attached to rocky reefs, coral rubble, boulders, tide pools, and other hard substrates.
Most common from the lower intertidal zone to depths of approximately 20 m (66 ft).
Prefers areas with clear, well-circulated water and moderate wave action, often forming dense patches on rocky bottoms.

Size