DSC_4296 Rhodoliths (Sporolithon durum) in rock pool. These hard, golf ball sized, free living coralline algae, do not attached to any substrate. Instead they roll around subtidally, and may aggregate to form 'beds' on coarse sand, gravel or shell debris. Because of their complex structure, Rhodolyte beds form unique ecosystems with high biodiversity, supporting many other rare and unusual species. Army Bay, Whangaparaoa Peninsula
DSC_7470 Coralline algae (Arthrocardia sp.) jointed, flattened, fan-like plants, rosy pink in colour, sometimes with a glossy sheen. Low intertidal to subtidal 20m. Catseye Point, Kakanui *
