The coralline algal cascades of Tallon Island (Jalan) fringing reef, NW Australia

Crustose coralline algae (CCA) are a dominant group of calcareous red algae (Corallinaceae, Rhodophyceae) that play a vital role on coral reefs by binding together structural elements such as corals that constitute the reef framework (Nelson 2009). In the Kimberley region of NW Australia, however, CCA are hypothesized to play a more significant role in reef construction (Wilson 2013). Here, we report the finding of an unusual and extensive CCA dominated reef platform in a tropical, low-energy reef setting.