07/25/2025
Have you ever found this type of seaweed before?
This is a species of Leptogorgia commonly known as a sea whip or sea fan. It belongs to the family of Gorgoniidae and is a genus of soft corals. They can vary in color, including orange, yellow, white, red or purple. They are found in the Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts. They are slow growing and are easily damaged by factors like storms and fishing activities.
This is easily one of my most favorite of the seaweeds that I do find along the coasts of where I live. I do not, usually, find an abundance of it, but I am sure happy when I do.
When I first started to find them a few years ago, I didn't even think that they would survive the trip home intact because they are so fragile. Most make it, but some do not. I didn't know how I would use them then, but as you can see in the second picture, I did figure it out. Rest assured, they are securely attached and preserved to last pretty much, forever.
So tell me, are you in love with them as much as I am?
PS: Sorry about the colour of the photo. It's hard to get a more natural colour under false lighting 😬
