Zonée Jaune

Overview

Zonaria tournefortii is a species of brown macroalgae belonging to the family Dictyotaceae. It is widely distributed across warm-temperate and tropical regions, including the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the Atlantic Ocean.

Appearance

This seaweed typically grows in an erect form, reaching heights of up to 15 cm. It features yellowish-brown to dark brown flattened axes that arise from a dense, matted rhizoidal holdfast. The blades are often wedge-shaped or fan-shaped, widening toward the tips, and are characterized by faint concentric zonation and occasional incisions. A visible midrib is often present, and the overall structure is relatively delicate and thin.

Distribution & habitat

Zonaria tournefortii is commonly found in sublittoral habitats, often thriving on hard substrates such as boulders or reefs. It is well-adapted to moderately exposed coastal environments and is frequently observed at depths ranging from the sublittoral fringe down to at least 20 meters. Its range includes the Mediterranean, the eastern and western Atlantic, and various island groups like the Azores and Canary Islands.