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). San Clemente Island, California, USA
Species:
Giant kelp,
Macrocystis pyriferaLocation:
San Clemente Island,
CaliforniaImage ID:
02497Format: Film 3:2
Copyright ©Phillip Colla, all rights reserved worldwide.
This professional quality stock photo can be licensed in high resolution form by contacting the photographer: Phillip Colla,
photos@oceanlight.com, (760) 707-7153,
more info and photographer bio.