Brown algae, Arien harulu
Sargassum polycystum
Family: Sargassaceae
What it is like
A brown seaweed. It produces runners from the base. Then erect branches arise from these. These erect stems are 30 cm long. They are warted and have deeply toothed leaves.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows on coral reefs. It grows in the lower tidal zone and on sheltered shores.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Andaman Islands, Asia, Australia, Canary Islands, China, East Africa, FSM, Guam, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mauritius, Micronesia, Myanmar, New Caledonia, Pacific, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Reunion, SE Asia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Algae, seaweed, frond
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Agar-agar koepan, Boto-boto, Lusay-lusay