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 Zonarieae

-Mermaid's Fan Seaweeds (Genus Padina)

-Complex Padina pavonica

-Peacock's Tail (Padina pavonica)

The Peacock's Tail (Padina pavonica) is a species of brown algae in the family Dictyotaceae. It is known for its distinctive fan-shaped fronds and is commonly found in shallow marine environments. Fronds typically grow to 5–15 cm (2–6 inches) in diameter. Coloration: Light brown to golden brown, with a whitish calcified edge. Texture: Slightly stiff due to the presence of calcium carbonate, giving it a rigid, leathery feel.

Range
- Native to the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Red Sea, and parts of the eastern Atlantic.
- It is not native to the tropical eastern Pacific, including the Pacific coast of Mexico and the Zihuatanejo region.
Habitat
- Grows on rocky reefs, reef flats, tide pools, seagrass beds, and other hard substrates.
- Typically found from the intertidal zone to depths of about 30 m (100 ft) in clear, well-lit marine waters.
- Often forms dense patches in sheltered bays and on shallow reefs.
Size
- Frond height: 5–20 cm (2–8 in)
- Frond width: 3–15 cm (1.2–6 in)
- Colonies may spread over areas exceeding 50 cm (20 in) across.