A view of an underwater forest of giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera

A view of an underwater forest of giant kelp.  Giant kelp grows rapidly, up to 2' per day, from the rocky reef on the ocean bottom to which it is anchored, toward the ocean surface where it spreads to form a thick canopy.  Myriad species of fishes, mammals and invertebrates form a rich community in the kelp forest.  Lush forests of kelp are found through California's Southern Channel Islands. San Clemente Island, USA, Macrocystis pyrifera, natural history stock photograph, photo id 25400
A view of an underwater forest of giant kelp. Giant kelp grows rapidly, up to 2' per day, from the rocky reef on the ocean bottom to which it is anchored, toward the ocean surface where it spreads to form a thick canopy. Myriad species of fishes, mammals and invertebrates form a rich community in the kelp forest. Lush forests of kelp are found through California's Southern Channel Islands. San Clemente Island, USA

This image is featured in: Underwater Photos of Marine Algae in Southern California and Baja California, Catalina Island Aerial Photograph

Species: Giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera
Location: San Clemente Island, California
Image ID: 25400
Format: Digital 16:9
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