Marine macroalgae (seaweeds)

Marine macroalgae, or seaweeds, come in diverse and interesting forms.  There are three main groups, that can generally be distinguished by their colour: reds (Rhodophyta), browns (Heterokontophyta), and green (Chlorophyta).

Almost 800 species occur in New Zealand.  However, there are quite few that are undescribed or poorly known.

Adams NM (1994) Seaweeds of New Zealand. An illustrated guide. Canterbury University Press, Christchurch.