Red Sea Spaghetti

Overview

Gracilariopsis andersonii, commonly known as red sea spaghetti, is a species of red algae belonging to the family Gracilariaceae. This marine plant features slender, cylindrical thalli that visually evoke tangles of fine pasta. It is native to coastal regions along the Pacific coast of North America.

Appearance

The species forms branching, wire-like cords or strings that are typically reddish when fresh or young, but can shift toward brownish-yellow tones as they age or under high light conditions. Because of its cylindrical, noodle-like form and morphological variability, distinguishing it from related red algae often requires microscopic examination of reproductive structures.

Distribution & habitat

This alga is found along the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from British Columbia down through California. Individuals typically anchor themselves to solid objects such as rocks, stones, or buried cobbles, and can frequently be observed during low tides in intertidal zones or shallow waters.