Bunny Ears

Overview

Lomentaria articulata, commonly known as bunny ears or bunny-eared bead-weed, is a small species of red algae. It is frequently encountered along rocky coastal zones and within tide pools. This distinctive marine plant features a segmented structure that creates a recognizable silhouette against the shoreline.

Appearance

The species forms bright red to dark brown, shiny fronds made of hollow, bead-like or cylindrical segments. Branching occurs regularly from the constrictions between these segments, tapering toward the ends. The apical tips typically terminate in pairs that resemble miniature rabbit ears, inspiring its common name. The fronds can sometimes display bleached pink or orange highlights near the tips.

Distribution & habitat

This alga is widely distributed across temperate coastal regions, including around the British Isles and parts of Europe. It thrives in the intertidal zone, often occupying shaded niches, overhangs, and rockpools, or growing as an epiphyte attached to other larger seaweeds and kelp stipes.

Biology & behavior

Bunny ears serves as a microhabitat and potential food source for various small marine grazers, such as tiny snails that frequent its branching fronds. Its soft, segmented thallus allows it to withstand moderate wave action while remaining securely anchored to hard substrates via a small basal disc.