With a stem that can grow up to 118 feet and a bulbous, head-like, gas-filled pneumatocyst on top for buoyancy, the bull kelp is a strange macroalgae that forms dense underwater forests along the Pacific Coast of North America. Many thick, hair-like ribbons sprout from the “head” allowing for photosynthesis to occur. It has been said that the large swaying forms of the bull kelp body may have been perceived as a mermaid beckoning weary, delirious (or grog-soaked) sailors down into the depths. But seeing it gasping its last breath here on the beach — not going to lure you anywhere, is it?

10.17.26