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turtleweed

Scientific Name: Batis maritima

Family: Bataceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Turtleweed

This page provides information about various plants and algae referred to as "turtleweed," focusing on their characteristics, habitat, and potential interactions with the environment.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species of turtleweed, particularly Chlorodesmis fastigiata, are found in marine aquariums.

Scientific Names and Common Names

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: Commonly known as turtleweed or Maiden's Hair Plant.
  • Batis maritima: Commonly known as saltwort, beachwort, turtleweed, pickleweed, barilla, planta de sal, camphire, herbe-crbes, smaphire, saimbhir, samapere, saladilla, and lechuga de sal.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: Belongs to the genus Chlorodesmis.
  • Batis maritima:
    • Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicots)
    • Order: Brassicales (Mustards and Allies)
    • Family: Bataceae
    • Genus: Batis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: Found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef. It grows in clumps on coral and rocky reef tops, slopes, and terraces in shallow waters, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters.
  • Batis maritima: Found in saline areas along the coasts.

Ecological Role

  • Batis maritima: Primarily recommended for natural landscapes and habitat restorations. It is also suitable for butterfly gardens in saline areas along the coasts.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: A soft, upright filamentous green macroalga (seaweed) that can grow up to 20cm in length. It features fine filaments, resembling strands of hair or thread.
  • Batis maritima: It is a halophyte, meaning it is adapted to growing in saline conditions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: Selectively grazed on and used for shelter by certain organisms, such as members of the Decapoda order, to avoid predators.
  • The Turtle weed crab (Caphyra rotundifrons) inhabits clumps of the dark green seaweed known as Turtle weed.

Further Information

  • Wikimedia Commons hosts images of Chlorodesmis fastigiata.
  • Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Batis maritima.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.