Porphyra purpurea is a species of red algae in the order Bangiales.
Description This red alga consists of a single membranous layer of cells forming a blade attached by a disk holdfast. It grows to a length of 20 to 50 cm long. The blade has the texture of a thin polythene sheet.
Habitat They are littoral, growing on rock, pebbles, limpets and barnacles.
Distribution Recorded from Canada and Europe. Common in Great Britain, Ireland and Isle of Man.
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