Gutweed
Ulva intestinalis
Gutweed has bright green, hollow fronds that trap bubbles of oxygen, causing it to float near the water’s surface. In calm or nutrient-rich areas, it can form large floating patches, making it quite noticeable. If you explore Lihou’s upper pools at low tide, you might see clumps of gutweed bobbing or clinging to rocks.
- Habitat: Upper to mid-shore in rockpools.
- When to See: Year-round; tends to proliferate in spring/summer
- Length: 10–20 cm