Egg Wrack

Scientific Name: 
Ascophyllum nodosum

Egg Wrack is a common 'wrack' seaweed which grows on sheltered, rocky shores, between the upper and middle shore. It has a tough, leathery appearance but is particularly distinguishable by its air bladders which appear at regular intervals along the fronds. Egg Wrack is a long-lived species, with individuals growing slowly for decades, and fronds often lasting for as long as 15 years before breaking off.

How to identify: 
Egg Wrack has long, dark brown, strap-like fronds with air bladders protruding at regular intervals along their length. The yellowish-green reproductive bodies look like sultanas.
Where to find it: 
Common on rocky shores all around our coasts.
How people can help: 

Seaweeds provide a vital link in the food chain for many of our rarer species. Our seas and coastline are in need of protection if we are to keep our marine wildlife healthy. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. This work has recently had a massive boost with the passing of the Marine Bill, promising sustainable development of the UK's marine environment. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust.

Statistics: 
Length: up to 2m
Conservation status: 
Common.
Did you know?: 
Egg Wrack, also known as 'Knotted Wrack', often bears tufts of a small, reddish epiphytic (plants that live on other plants) algae, Polysiphonia lanosa. This filamentous 'Red Seaweed' forms pom-pom-like structures on the Egg Wrack.
Seasons: 
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
When to see
Start date: 
January
End date: 
December