The Most Common Marine Plants

Marine plants are some of the most unsung heroes of the seas. Without their presence, many of the aquatic ecosystems that we humans have come to love and enjoy would disintegrate. Here at Harbor Breeze Cruises, we see plenty of whales, dolphins, and seals on nearly every charter, but we also find it very important to inform people about common marine plants as well. As a California-based whale watching company, we also love to teach people about California coast marine plants. Below we will dive into some of the most common marine plants.

1. Kelp

Kelp is likely the most well-known California coast marine plant. Kelp is a signature plant in the cool Pacific waters off the coast of California. In fact, the plant can only thrive in colder waters, so you will not be seeing kelp in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico or other warmer bodies of saltwater. Kelp is quite unique in that they generally grow in groups, known as a kelp forest. Kelp forests can grow to incredible sizes with individual kelp plants being able to grow to hundreds of feet in length!

2. Seaweed

Seaweed may be the most well-known and recognized marine plant of them all. Seaweed can be found in oceans all across the globe, and California is no exception. There are dozens of species of seaweed, meaning that this plant comes in many different shapes and sizes.

3. Phytoplankton

While phytoplankton may not be the most well-known, they are likely the most plentiful marine plant. Phytoplankton are a critical part to all aquatic ecosystems. As they are microscopic, you won’t be able to see them with the naked eye, but rest assured, they are hard at work. Another fun fact is that phytoplankton are one of the favorite foods of whales!

4. Sea Grass

Like grass found on land, seagrass is a rooted plant. Sea grass grows on the ocean floor with its roots embedded in the sand. The similarities don’t end there, as this marine plant also resembles its land counterpart.

5. Sargassum

Sargassum is a marine plant that goes by several names. Some of its aliases include gulfweed and sea holly. If you are a frequent beachgoer, you have almost certainly encountered sargassum either on the beach or in the water. This plant resembles many land-based shrubs as its structure consists of stems, leaves, and “berries”.

Book a Whale Watching Cruise Today

Now that you’ve learned about some California coast marine plants,  your interest in getting out on the water and seeing some whales as well as marine plants for yourself has probably peaked. Well if you’re in the Los Angeles / Long Beach area or planning to visit soon, Harbor Breeze Yacht Charters and Cruises is the perfect opportunity for you. As a top Los Angeles whale watching operator, our whale watching cruises take families out to sea on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, searching for the ocean’s most beautiful organisms – whales, dolphins, sea lions, and marine plants included! For more information regarding times, prices, and more, please visit us online. We can’t wait to see you on board – book a cruise today!