Liagore Visqueuse

Overview

Liagora viscida is a calcified red alga commonly found in temperate marine environments, particularly across the Mediterranean and the Northeast Atlantic. It is a seasonal species, typically appearing in spring and reaching its peak abundance during the summer months before disappearing in autumn.

Appearance

This alga features a bushy, erect thallus that typically grows to between 5 and 10 cm in height. Its structure consists of very fine, cylindrical filaments—measuring approximately 1 mm in diameter—that exhibit a characteristic dichotomous branching pattern. While the main body is often white due to its calcified nature, the growing tips are notably devoid of lime and display a distinct pink to violet hue. The plant attaches to rocky substrates via a discoid base.

Biology & behavior

As a photophilic species, it thrives in well-lit, shallow rocky environments. It utilizes a combination of pigments, including phycoerythrin (red), chlorophyll (green), and various carotenoids, to perform photosynthesis. The species follows a seasonal life cycle, existing as a gametophyte during its active growth period. It is considered a common species within its preferred range, often found in isolated patches on reef structures.