Information Confusion Over Species

This is another of the species that shows conflicting naming and identification the Australian Algae Name Index has some confusion over species and is out of date listing 

  • Cladostephus australis Kütz.
  • Cladostephus spongiosus (Huds.) C.Agardh.
  • Cladostephus verticillatus (Lightf.) Lyngb.


Cladostephus australis - this now being a synonym of Cladostephus hirsutus making this the currently correctly recognised species however the Australian Algae Name Index does not recognise this instead it has two species Cladostephus verticillatus (Lightf.) Lyngb.

This species is a little confusing as it seems there may be a couple of species and the AANI naming is a bit outdated See the note.

For this site I am currently treating all identifications on this as Cladostephus spongiosus and will update this if things change. namely as I cannot link other species from the index as they do not exist in the ALA databse.

At a glance

Habitat Found in the lower intertidal zone amongst rocky pools and reef areas
Size Can grow to around 20cm
Origin Native
Distribution Found from WA to NSW including around Tasmania also native to New Zealand
Descriptions
Distribution
Found from WA to NSW including around Tasmania also native to New Zealand
Habitat
Found in the lower intertidal zone amongst rocky pools and reef areas
Size
Can grow to around 20cm
Common Name Hairy Sand Weed
Aliases No Known Aliases
Origin Native
Tags
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomChromista
PhylumOchrophyta
ClassPhaeophyceae
SubclassDictyotophycidae
OrderSphacelariales
FamilyCladostephaceae
GenusCladostephus
SpeciesCladostephus spongiosus
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
Original No original text available
Bibliography View page references
Added Wed 7 Oct 2026 @ 13:38 PM
Updated Thu 8 Oct 2026 @ 13:52 PM
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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.