Durvillaea potatorum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Durvillaea potatorum |
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| Durvillaea potatorum off Eaglehawk Neck, Australia | |
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Durvillaea potatorum is a type of really big, strong kelp (a kind of seaweed) that grows in the ocean around Australia. It's often called "southern bull kelp" because of its large size and tough nature.
Contents
What is Southern Bull Kelp?
This amazing seaweed is very large and tough. It has a thick stem, which is called a stipe. It also has wide, flat blades that look like leaves. Durvillaea potatorum is built to survive in the strong ocean currents.
Where Does It Live?
This special kelp only lives in one part of the world. You can find Durvillaea potatorum along the southeastern coast of Australia. It grows in the cool, clear waters there.
How People Use It
For a very long time, Durvillaea potatorum has been important to people.
Traditional Uses
Long ago, the Aboriginal Tasmanians used this kelp a lot. They were very clever with it! They made many useful things, like:
- Shoes to protect their feet
- Bags to carry fresh water
- Containers for food
Modern Uses
Today, people still collect Durvillaea potatorum. It often washes up on beaches, especially around King Island. Workers gather this "beach wrack" (seaweed that has washed ashore).
After it's collected, the kelp is dried and cut into small pieces, like chips. These chips are then sent all the way to Scotland. There, a special substance called a phycocolloid is taken out of the kelp. This substance is used in many different products we use every day.
