Green Algae (Sea Hair)

Scientific Name: Ulva intestinalis (formerly Enteromorpha)

Category: plant

A vibrant green fibrous algae growing on intertidal rocks, often appearing as hair-like or tubular strands.

Bright green color, filamentous or tubular structure, often found in dense mats or slippery patches on hard substrates.

Intertidal zones, rocky shores, and estuaries where it attaches to rocks and shells.

Year-round, but most prolific in spring and summer with increased sunlight.

Common/Abundant

Acts as a primary producer, provides food for marine snails and limpets, and offers habitat for tiny invertebrates.

Cladophora species, which are also green and filamentous but usually have a more branched, tufted appearance.

Best viewed at low tide on rocky beaches; use caution as these algae make rocks extremely slippery.

This algae is highly tolerant of varying salinity levels and is often used as an indicator species for nutrient levels in coastal waters.

Moss or algae on a rock found on a Washington state beach