Oct 24, 2013
Funnelweed (Padina gymnospora)
...a species of brown algae that is widely distributed can can be found in most tropical oceans worldwide. P. gymnospora is often found growing on corals, shells, rocks and other hard surfaces and will feed via photosynthesis. Like other members of the genus Padina P. gymnospora is one of the few species of brown algae that is calcareous, giving it a hard ribbon candy-esque appearance.
Classification
Chromalvelata-Harosa-Heterokonta-Ochrophyta-Phaeista-Limnista-Fucistia-Phaeophycae-Dictyotales-Dictyotacae-Zonarieae-Padina-P. gymnospora
Images: Zubi 05 and California Academy of Sciences