Oarweed  (Laminaria digitata)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

Occurs around the coasts of Britain, but is scarce along parts of the east coast due to a lack of hard substrates and turbidity of the water (2). Elsewhere it is known from the Atlantic coasts of Europe, as well as from Iceland, southern Greenland and the eastern coasts of North America (2).

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

This kelp is characteristic of the lower intertidal and shallow subtidal zones (4), and can reach a depth of 20m in clear water (2). It seems to fare particularly well in moderately exposed areas or where there are strong water currents (2).

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