Thongweed
Himanthalia elongata
Thongweed begins as a small, button-shaped disc before growing into thin, ribbon-like “strings.” Some people refer to it as “sea spaghetti” because it is edible and has been used in certain coastal cuisines. On Lihou, look for it in deeper rockpools or attached to submerged rocks, especially during low tide when its long fronds may become more visible.
- Habitat: Lower shore to shallow sub-tidal zones
- When to See: Spring and summer
- Length: Can reach up to 2 m