Elk kelp facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Elk kelp
Pelagophycus porra washed up on San Clemente Island
Scientific classification
Clade:	SAR
Phylum:	Ochrophyta
Class:	Phaeophyceae
Order:	Laminariales
Family:	Laminariaceae
Genus:	Pelagophycus Areschoug, 1881
Species:	P. porra
Binomial name
Pelagophycus porra (Léman) Setchell
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Pelagophycus is a special type of kelp. It is the only species in its group, which is why it is called a monotypic genus. This amazing kelp lives in the deep waters off the west coast of central North America.

The main species, Pelagophycus porra, is also known as Elk kelp. It got this name because its blades look a bit like elk antlers. This kelp prefers cool water, growing best where temperatures stay below 60 °F (16 °C).

Where Elk Kelp Lives

Elk kelp grows in underwater forests. These are called subtidal forests because they are always covered by water. You can find them along the coasts of southern California and northwestern Baja California Peninsula.

Deep Water Homes

Elk kelp lives in fairly deep water. It can be found from about 20 metres (66 ft) to 90 metres (300 ft) below the surface. It attaches itself to the seafloor using a strong anchor-like part called a holdfast. This holdfast helps it stay put in sandy or loose sediment.

Different Types of Elk Kelp

Scientists have found that there are three main types of Pelagophycus. These are called ecotypes, which means they are slightly different forms of the same species.

• Pelagophycus giganteus
• Pelagophycus porra
• Pelagophycus intermedius

Each of these types might have small differences in how they look or where they grow. They all belong to the same Pelagophycus family.