Sargassum megalophyllum Montagne 1838, Sargassum vulgare var. megalophyllum (Montagne) Vickers 1897
A leafy, brown algae, resembling a leafy shrub. Its holdfast can support multiple primary branches, which grow into similar secondary branches.
Tertiary branches resemble true leaves, with a prominent midrib and a wavy or occasionally serrated edge. Fertile in spring.
Upper subtidal but extends into intertidal and is occasionally found in tide pools. Prefers moderate wave exposure.
Widespread, and common. Assemblages, however, appear to be severely regressed, with very few remaining forests.