Domain Eukaryota Class Phaeophyceae Genus Chorda Rank Species | Superphylum Heterokonta Family Chordaceae Scientific name Chorda filum Order Kelp | |
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Similar Chorda, Kelp, Desmarestia aculeata, Fucus serratus, Scytosiphon lomentaria | ||
Chorda filum, commonly known as dead man's rope or sea lace among other names, is a species of brown algae in the genus Chorda. It is widespread in the temperate waters of the northern hemisphere. The species also has numerous other common names related to its physical appearance. Names include mermaid's tresses, cat's gut, bootlace weed, seatwine, and mermaid's fishing line.
Description
C. filum have typically long, unbranched and hollow rope-like brown fronds about 5 mm (0.20 in) in diameter but can reach to lengths of 8 m (26 ft). The holdfast is disc-shaped. C. filum is found in sheltered marine and brackish bodies of water at depths of 5 m (16 ft). They are usually anchored to loose substrates like gravel and pebbles or other macroalgae and eelgrass. C. filum grow at an average of 17 cm (6.7 in) per month. They are annuals and die during winter.
