Being one of the few freshwater forms it is often overlooked in floristic surveys. Cells are spherical with stellate plastids, one per cell. Some of these materials have found their way into the commercial market . Movement can be observed by cells and is thought to be by the extrusion of material from the cell surface. They are found in greenhouses and in natural areas adjacent to springs and outfalls along rock surfaces.
Color can range from a brilliant pink to an olive drab.
Of economic importance is Porphyra . Due to its value , the life history of Porphyra has been extensively examined. The foliose flat blade that comprises the dominant growth form is haploid. Growth is during the colder parts of the year. During reproduction, the haploid plant produces spermatia along the borders of the plant.