Algae · Brown algae · Encrusting algae · Marine Life · South Africa

Ralfsia (Ralfsia verrucosa)

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Details of the concentric rings of Ralfsia, with some missing patches (probably grazed). Cape Agulhas, Western Cape (2020).

Ralfsia verrucosa can be considered an inactive taxon by some (for example, on iNaturalist). It is then replaced by Pseudoralfsia verrucosa.

Forms flat patches or irregular, concentric rings. Brown, grading to khaki, with pale edges.

About 1 mm thick and up to 15 cm wide.

Found in ‘gardens’ of the limpet Scutellastra longicosta. Produces polyphenols which deter some herbivores because they inhibit digestion.
Replaced by (Neo)ralfsia expansa in Natal and Moçambique.

Two Oceans: A Guide to the Marine Life of Southern Africa (1994, 2016)

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Small Ralfsia in a rock pool, surrounded by some winkles. Cape Agulhas, Western Cape (2020).
Ralfsia growing on a mussel, under a boulder. Jacobsbaai, Western Cape (2020) – iNaturalist
Ralfsia growing on blue mussel shells, in a rock pool, surrounded by sea lettuce. Hermanus, Western Cape (2020).
Ralfsia growing on blue mussel shells, in a rock pool, surrounded by sea lettuce. Hermanus, Western Cape (2020) – iNaturalist
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