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turtleweed

Scientific Name: Batis

Family: Bataceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Turtleweed

This page explores the fascinating world of plants referred to as "Turtleweed," encompassing information from various sources. Note that the name "Turtleweed" is applied to more than one species, and this should be considered when interpreting the information below.

Considerations for Pets

  • One species of turtleweed, Chlorodesmis fastigiata, features fine filaments, resembling strands of hair or thread.

Scientific Names and Common Names

  • Accepted Scientific Name: There are at least two plants known as Turtleweed:
    • Chlorodesmis fastigiata
    • Batis maritima
  • Common Names:
    • Turtleweed (applies to both Chlorodesmis fastigiata and Batis maritima)
    • Maiden's Hair Plant (for Chlorodesmis fastigiata)
    • Saltwort (for Batis maritima)
    • Beachwort (for Batis maritima)
    • Pickleweed (for Batis maritima)
    • Barilla (for Batis maritima)
    • Planta de sal (for Batis maritima)
    • Camphire (for Batis maritima)
    • Herbe--crbes (for Batis maritima)
    • Smaphire, Saimbhir, Samapere (mispronunciations of St. Pierre, for Batis maritima)
    • Saladilla (for Batis maritima)
    • Lechuga (for Batis maritima)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata: Belongs to the genus Chlorodesmis, described as a filamentous green macroalga.
  • Batis maritima:
    • Kingdom: Not explicitly stated, but as a plant, it belongs to the Plant Kingdom (Plantae).
    • Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicots)
    • Order: Brassicales (Mustards and Allies)
    • Family: Bataceae
    • Genus: Batis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata is commonly found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef. It grows at depths of 5 to 20 meters.
  • Batis maritima is a halophyte, suggesting it thrives in saline environments, particularly along coasts.

Ecological Role

  • Batis maritima is recommended for natural landscapes and habitat restorations, particularly in saline areas. It's also suitable for butterfly gardens in coastal regions.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Chlorodesmis fastigiata is a soft, upright, filamentous green macroalga, growing up to 20cm in length, forming clumps on coral and rocky reef tops. In marine aquariums, it is popular for its fine filaments.
  • Batis maritima is a halophyte.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The "Turtle-weed crab," Caphyra rotundifrons, is associated with turtleweed. They inhabit clumps of the algae, using it for shelter from predators. Moon Wrasse are found above Chlorodesmis fastigiata.

Further Information

  • Wikimedia Commons hosts images of Chlorodesmis fastigiata.
  • Discover Life provides information about Batis maritima.
  • Dave's Garden provides a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.