Aquascope Facts
Irish moss


Irish moss

Distribution
Distribution in scandinavian waters
Maximum length: 15 cm.
Appearance: The plant branches into 0,3-1 cm wide lobes with flat edges. It has a consistency that resembles cartilage, especially in wave exposed areas. Normally dark red in colour, but when exposed to excessive sunlight can transform to a light yellow (as shown on the left side of the picture) or green colour. Underwater it can have a blue shimmer (look at the plants on the rock on the right side of the picture).
Depth: 0-15 m.
Environment Irish moss grows on rocks and cliffs, but even in rock pools. Often lives under large brown algae, especially knotted and toothed wrack.
Classification: Irish moss is a member of the red algae group.

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Bo Johannesson | Martin Larsvik | Lars-Ove Loo | Helena Samuelsson