Bootlace Weed (Chorda filum)

The frond is very cord like and unbranched. It is round in section and during the summer is covered by dense fine hairs. The fronds can grow to great lengths of several metres although up to 8 metres is possible. They attach by a tiny holdfast and are slimy to the touch.

The holdfast attaches it to stones and gravel found in the lowest areas of the lower shore and into the sub-littoral. This is always in sheltered areas and so some sediment may be present and the lower parts of the frond near the holdfast can be covered in sand. Occasionally it can be found in pools higher up on the shore but it is intolerant of desiccation.

This is an annual seaweed appearing in large quantities in summer but absent in the winter.