Crustaphytum is a genus of red alga first discovered in Taoyuan algal reefs by Taiwanese scientists.

Starting from gametophytes, both male and female gametes grow in conceptacles on the surface of the algal body (thalli).

As long as the tetraspores encounter suitable conditions, they will germinate and grow into gametophytes, completing a triphasic life cycle.

Therefore, when observing Crustaphytum algae in the field, one can see that the edges of the calcified leaflets are wavy rather than tightly attached to the hard matrix.

As of 2020, Crustaphytum pacificum has been recorded in northern Taiwan (mainly in Shimen and Taoyuan) and New Caledonia in southwestern Pacific Ocean.

[8] Aside from that, the living algae can prevent the hard matrix from wave erosion, achieving the function of coastal protection.