Sargassum polyphyllum

Sargassum polyphyllum
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Clade:	Diaphoretickes
Clade:	SAR
Clade:	Stramenopiles
Phylum:	Gyrista
Subphylum:	Ochrophytina
Class:	Phaeophyceae
Order:	Fucales
Family:	Sargassaceae
Genus:	Sargassum
Species:	S. polyphyllum
Binomial name
Sargassum polyphyllum J.Agardh

Sargassum polyphyllum is a species of brown (class Phaeophyceae) macroalgae or limu (seaweed) in the order Fucales.[1]

Description

Sargassum polyphyllum, or limu kala, consists of thin, rough, wavy blades and a firm thallus.[2] Its height can range anywhere from 4 to 70 centimeters.[3] Sargassum polyphyllum is versatile and resilient enough to survive in areas such as harsh intertidal zones.[3]

Distribution and habitat

Species of Sargassaceae can be found worldwide. However, Sargassum polyphyllum is endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago. They can be found in intertidal pools and in depths of 75 meters below.[4]

Human use and cultural significance

In Hawaiian culture, limu kala is involved in certain religious practices such as asking for forgiveness and certain hula. It is also used in food, as fish bait, and traditional medicine.[5]

References

1. "WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Sargassum polyphyllum J.Agardh, 1848". www.marinespecies.org. Retrieved 2022-09-09.
2. Philippoff, Joanna; Wood, Caroline; Morishige, Kanoe; La Valle, Florybeth F.; Wood, Matthew; Faucci, Anushcka (2018). A Field Guide To Hawaii’s Coastal Organisms: Algae and Invertebrates. College of Education University of Hawaii at Manoa. ISBN 9781583511657.
3. "Sargasssum polyphyllum". www.hawaii.edu. Retrieved 2023-03-06.
4. Abbott, Isabella Aiona (2004). Marine green and brown algae of the Hawaiian Islands. John M. Huisman, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi: Bishop Museum Press. ISBN 1-58178-030-3. OCLC 52929144.
5. Huisman, John M. (2007). Hawaiian reef plants. Isabella Aiona Abbott, Celia Marie Smith, University of Hawaii at Manoa. Sea Grant College Program. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi: University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program. ISBN 1-929054-04-1. OCLC 123040861.