red marine algae

     

The re algae (Rhodophyta, IPA: /ˌroʊdəˈfaɪtə, roʊˈdɒfɨtə/, from Greek: ῥόδον (rhodon) = rose + φυτόν (phyton) = plant, thus red plant) is a large group, about 5,000–6,000 species  of mostly multicellular, marine algae, including many notable seaweeds. Other references indicate 10,000 species.  Most of the coralline algae, which secrete calcium carbonate and play a major role in building coral reefs, belong here. Red algae such as dulse (Palmaria palmata) and laver (nori/gim) are a traditional part of European and Asian cuisine and are used to make other products like agar, carrageenans and other food additives.