Here along the coastal edge of the Cape peninsula, kelp forests create unique ecosystem and provide a sheltered habitat for smaller creatures from the force of breaking waves. The photo shows the top fronds of the canopy afloat on the surface of the sea at low tide. It has a neat construction where hollow gas-filled stalks expand into bulbs at the top which then act as floats for the strap-shaped fronds. Creatures such as rock lobsters and sea urchins, mussels and sea cucumbers are typically associated with sea bamboo.
“Afloat” was this week’s photo challenge; to find out more click here to follow the link.
protective barrier
Nature on the Edge 
Very interesting. The fronds remind me of the long, twisted seed pods of a common tree here in the East and Midwest – Honeylocust.
Quite beautiful-glittering ribbons.
Definitely not something we would see in Tennessee! Thanks for sharing!
It looks very like some we get here, and its perfect for the challenge.
Beautifully done Liz – and great choice for the challenge.
Pretty photo! I don’t think I’d want them wrapping around my legs if I was swimming though.
LOvely!! great choice.