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Thongweed

Thongweed by Paul Taylor

Thongweed

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Scientific name: Himanthalia elongata
One of the longest seaweeds native to the UK, thongweed helps create a beautiful underwater forest to rival that of any on the land!

Top facts

Stats

2m long.

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

February - November.

About

This common brown seaweed, grows up to 2m long and has two distinct stages. It starts off as a tiny olive-green button attached to the rock, before long strap-like reproductive fronds grow rapidly between February and May.

What to look for

Button or mushroom like projections appear up to 2cm wide, from which long, thin, green-brown straps grow for up to 2m, branching into two as they go.

Where to find

All coasts of Britain and Ireland, except for south east England.

Did you know?

This species lives for 2-3 years and only reproduces once before dying!