Brown Kelp (Sugar Kelp)
Scientific Name: Saccharina latissima
Category: other
Brief Description
A large, ribbon-like brown seaweed commonly found washed up on Pacific Northwest beaches.
Characteristics
Broad, long, yellowish-brown blades with a rubbery texture. The edges are often ruffled or wavy, and the surface can appear dimpled or textured like hammered metal.
Habitat
Low intertidal and subtidal rocky areas; thrives in cold, nutrient-rich marine waters.
When to Find It
Perennial, but most often seen washed up after storms in autumn and winter.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Provides critical habitat and food for many marine organisms; acts as a carbon sink and helps buffer wave energy.
Easily Confused With
Winged kelp (Alaria) which has a distinct midrib, or Bull kelp (Nereocystis) which has a large bulbous bulb. Sugar kelp lacks a midrib.
Observation Tips
Check the wrack line (the high tide mark) on sandy beaches like those in Puget Sound after a high tide or storm.
Interesting Facts
It is called 'Sugar Kelp' because of a sweet-tasting sugar alcohol called mannitol that forms a white powder on the surface as the kelp dries.
User Notes
Puget Sound