When most people think of algae they depict clumps of slime on river stones or anything gooey growing on the sides of aquariums. Some may recall the current, and highly publicized, negative association of increased algal growth with coral reef health (below photo). It's true, the ability of macroalgae to grow unmercifully when conditions are favorable has cast a negative shadow over them, but humans are typically responsible when these conditions occur. Despite these instances of overgrowth, algae are still very important to the health of most ecosystems. Without algae even coral reefs wouldn't exist.
Algae create beautiful and ecologically healthy underwater gardens, full of life and grace. As seen in the photos below, such as kelp forests, rocky intertidal communities, and sub-tidal rocky reef habitats. Through my work I hope to open up a world unknown to most people and help develop a greater appreciation for what nature can create.