| Description: |
Gracilaria multipartida is a red algae with ecological and economic value. Has a typical triphasic life cycle common to red algae involving gametophyte, carposporophyte, tetrasporophyte stages. This alga has a fleshy, branched thallus with flattened, leaf-like branches that appear fan-shaped, divided into multiple segments ("multipartida"). Exibits a red or purplish color due to the presence of phycoerythrin and typically grows to about 10-30 cm in length. Is typically found in tropical and subtropical marine regions, especially in the Atlantic Ocean in interdital and shallow subtidal zones, attached to rocks, corals and less frequently shells. Ecologically, provides shelter and habitat for small invetebrates and fish and its presence contributes to nutrient cycling in coastal ecossistems. It's harvested for agar production, relevant in the food and biotechnology industries making him a valuable economic resource in some regions. |
Species:
see species detailed info >
|
Gracilaria multipartita (Clemente) Harvey |
