Appearance and lifestyle:
Split-fan kelp (Laminaria pallida) is a brown seaweed that is stiff and solid, growing up to five metres, and ends in one large fan-shaped frond. The frond is so long that it can hang down and touch the ground, enabling it to sweep away herbivores in the swell.
Habitat:
Most common species in South Africa, although it prefers deeper water.
Diet:
Kelp is a plant and does not have a diet the same way animals do, kelp receives its nutrients through photosynthesis.
Threats:
Storm damage, global warming, pollution etc.
Is a shelter and breeding ground for some animals.
If damaged, split-fan kelp can regrow quickly.
Some marine animals feed on it.