Coralline Algae
Corallina officinalis
Coralline algae deposit calcium carbonate in their tissues, making them firm and often pinkish-white when dried. These algae create miniature reef-like structures that shelter small invertebrates and help stabilise the surrounding habitat. Look for their rigid, branching forms in Lihou’s tidepools, where they may appear as clusters of pinkish “twigs” on rocks.
- Habitat: Mid to lower shore
- When to See: Year-round
- Length: 2–10 cm