Macrocystis pyrifera

Giant kelp off California

The giant kelp ( Macrocystis pyrifera ), also called Birnentang, is the largest of all brown algae and is up to 45 meters long. It is one of the fastest growing organisms on earth and grows up to 30 centimeters per day. A root- like structure anchors the alga with the rocky ground and gas-filled float and hold the leaf-like parts on the surface.

The giant kelp is the most important element in many kelp beds.