Seagrasses grow at rapid rates making them crucial contributers to the food web. They have adapted by being able to resist erosion by waves and tidal currents. They also provide food and shelter for small invertebrates like the conch.
Mangroves are a large shrub that have adapted to saline conditions to survive. Mangroves have also adapted to survive in low oxygen soils. Their roots serve as nursery habitat for young fish.
Green algae (Chlorophyta) is the most common. It has the ability to absorb calcium carbonate into their tissues adding to sediment formation. Red algae (Rhodophyta) is a close family member to the green algae. This algae can be found in shallow reefs to deep reefs at 150ft. They also are a major part of coral reef formations. Brown algae (phaeophyta) are from animals, apart from the other algae this kind is more sparse. They grow at depths of 30-70ft.