Fucus distichus is an abundant and dominant representative of the order Fucales. This species has a large spatial distribution; it is found in temperate Pacific and Atlantic coastal systems across the globe (1). Although regarded as an intertidal "weed", this algae deserves thoughtful recognition. The mass intertidal carpets are not only impressive but serve an important ecological function. Various morphological adaptations and superior resilience has allowed F. distichus to thrive in the harsh, high rocky intertidal zone (2).

An army of brown, Fucus distichus dominates all!

Website, illustrations and images created/taken by:

Ben Shannon-Alferes

bjsa@u.washington.edu

ZooBot Spring Quarter 2009

Friday Harbor Laboratories

University of Washington