Sargassum that also can mean all seaweed species washed up on shore. "Sargassum" species are found throughout tropical areas of the world and are often the most obvious macrophyte in near-shore areas where "Sargassum" beds often occur near coral reefs. The plants grow subtidally and attach to coral, rocks, or shells in moderately exposed or sheltered rocky or pebble areas. These tropical populations often undergo seasonal cycles of growth and decay in concert with seasonal changes in sea temperature. In tropical "Sargassum" species that are often preferentially consumed by herbivorous fishes and echinoids, a relatively low level of phenolics and tannins
Sargassum parts of their development, but also as a permanent residence for endemic species that can only be found living on and within the Sargassum . These endemic organisms have specialized patterns and colorations that mimic the Sargassum and allow them to be impressively camouflaged in their environment. In total, these Sargassum mats are home to more than 11 phyla and over 100 different species . There is also a total of 81 fish species (36 families represented) that reside in the Sargassum or utilize it for parts of their life cycles . Other marine organisms, such as young sea turtles,