Sporophyte filament often more common found with wither distribution more time of the year. Form two types of reproduction structures. The Ectocarpus life cycle involves an alternation of generations. Both phases are filamentous and have a similar appearance, but gamethophytes may be more restricted in their distribution and seasonality than sporophytes. Reproductive structures forms at the ends of branches.
Sporophytes form two types of sporangia.
At lower temperatures. Some specialized goups such as Sphacelariales have more complex filaments and branches form propagules. They show a regular growth pattern. Dictyotales algae are more common in tropical oceans than in colder waters. The common genus Dictyota has a ribbon-like thallus with a regular dichotomus branchin pattern.