Mesh/Bubble Algal Bed (Biotic Group)

Component: Biotic

Unique Identifier: 563

Biotic Setting	Benthic/Attached Biota
Biotic Class	Aquatic Vegetation Bed
Biotic Subclass	Benthic Macroalgae
Biotic Group	Mesh/Bubble Algal Bed
Biotic Community	Dichyosphaeria Communities Valonia Communities Ventricaria Communities

Description

Definition

Areas dominated by mesh or bubble algae that form small, generally spherical masses attached to the benthos. They may develop lobes as they grow, but they do not further differentiate at the macro level. These masses may be hard or leathery, and they can sometimes be hollow. Bubble algae can be fast growing, quickly colonizing exposed reef surfaces, overtaking new coral growth, and deterring other animals from attaching there.