Giant kelp frond showing pneumatocysts, Macrocystis pyrifera, #33439

Giant kelp frond showing pneumatocysts. Small 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. Catalina Island, California, USA, Macrocystis pyrifera, natural history stock photograph, photo id 33439
Giant kelp frond showing pneumatocysts. Small 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. Catalina Island, California, USA

Species: Giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera
Location: Catalina Island, California
Image ID: 33439
Format: Digital 3:2
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