About Endocladia muricata (Endlichter) J.Agardh
Endocladia muricata, with the scientific name Endocladia muricata (Endlichter) J.Agardh, is commonly called nailbrush seaweed or turfweed. This species is a marine alga widely distributed along the shores of the North Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska to Punto Santo Tomas, Baja California. It is common north of Point Conception, and is one of the most abundant algae in the high intertidal zone of the central California coast. Along this coast, it commonly forms the top-most visible band of seaweed. E. muricata typically grows on high intertidal rocks alongside Pelvetiopsis limitata (dwarf rockweed) and Mastocarpus papillatus (Turkish washcloth). Its thallus measures 4 to 8 cm tall, with a short, bushy structure. Its branches are cylindrical, show sub-dichotomous branching, and are covered in tiny, soft conical spines. The thallus ranges in color from blackish-brown to dark red to yellow, and dries to an almost black shade. It is usually not slippery to walk on, whether it is wet or dry.
