Desmarestia

For the other seaweed called landlady's wig, see Ahnfeltia plicata. For the other genus called mermaid's hair, see Cladophora.

Desmarestia
Desmarestia viridis
Scientific classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Clade: Sar
Clade: Stramenopiles
Division: Ochrophyta
Class: Phaeophyceae
Order: Desmarestiales
Family: Desmarestiaceae
Genus: Desmarestia
J.V.Lamouroux, 1813
Type species
Desmarestia aculeata

Desmarestia, also known as acid weed, acid kelp, acidweed, sea sorrel, mermaid's hair, and landlady's wig is a genus of brown algae found worldwide. However, 'sea sorrel' can also specifically refer to Desmarestia viridis. Members of this genus can be either annual or perennial. Annual members of this genus store sulfuric acid in intracellular vacuoles. When exposed to air they release the acid, thereby destroying themselves and nearby seaweeds in the process. They are found in shallow intertidal zones.

Ingesting sulfuric acid can cause severe digestive disturbances, but since sulfuric acid tastes extremely sour, members of the genus are unlikely to be eaten in harmful quantities.

The genus was named in honor of Anselme Gaëtan Desmarest.

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