Gas bladders -- pneumatocysts -- connect the kelp's stipes ("stems") to its blades ("leaves"). These bladders help elevate the kelp plant from the bottom, towards sunlight and the water's surface.Kelp detail showing pneumatocysts (air bladders) attached to stipe, San Diego. California, USA
Species:
Giant kelp,
Macrocystis pyriferaLocation:
CaliforniaImage ID:
02126Format: Film 3:2
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