Sea bamboo

Appearance and lifestyle:

Sea bamboo (Ecklonia maxima) is the largest species of kelp in South Africa, growing up to 12 metres tall. The stipe is hollow and full of gas, which helps it to float. The thick, straplike fronds grow from a bulb near the surface.

Habitat:

They are most common on the West Coast of South Africa and in Namibia.

Diet:

Sea bamboo is a plant and does not have a diet the same way animals do, kelp receives its nutrients through photosynthesis.

Threats:

Pollution, climate change and overharvesting in certain areas.

Sea bamboo can regrow quickly if damaged.

For some marine animals, sea bamboo offers them, food and is a good hiding spot.