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Mediterranean invasive species factsheet

Reproduction
It is able to reproduce sexually and asexually and
has a macroscopic gametophyte phase, referred to
as Asparagopsis, and a macroscopic
tetrasporophyte phase known as the ‘Falkenbergia’
stage.

Its highly successful vegetative reproduction may
account for the rapid spread of the species, which
has an attachment system consisting of basal
stolons and rhizoids that facilitate the establishment
of reproductive fragments.

Similar species
Asparagopsis armata. Photo: M. Otero
This species resembles Asparagopsis armata;
however, the presence of harpoon-like hooks in the
gametophyte stage of A. armata and the absence of Ecological impacts
them in A. taxiformis is a distinguishing character. Unknown, but it probably outcompetes native
The tetrasporophyte of A. taxiformis is, however, species for space and light.
apparently indistinguishable from that of A. armata.
The genus as a whole is noted for its high invasive Economic impacts
potential.
Unknown. Trials have shown the potential
pharmaceutical compounds of antifungal and
antibiotic activity of this algae.

Management options
Once it has become invasive, eradication and even
containment are not possible. The species might be
controlled most efficiently and effectively, and at the
lowest cost, early in the invasive process.

Further reading

Altamirano J. et al. 2008. The invasive species
Asparagopsis taxiformis (Bonnemaisoniales, Rhodophyta)
on Andalusian coasts (Southern Spain): reproductive
stages, new records and invaded comunities. Acta
Botánica Malacitana, 33, 5-10.
Asparagopsis armata
Andreakis, N. et al., 2004. Asparagopsis taxiformis and
Asparagopsis armata (Bonnemaisoniales, Rhodophyta):
genetic and morphological identification of Mediterranean
Brief history of its introduction and populations. Eur. J. Phycol. , 39: 273 – 283.
pathways
Native to Western Australia, this species shows
invasive behaviour around the Indo-Pacific region,
including Japan and Hawaii. Asparagopsis taxiformis
was probably introduced to the Mediterranean via
maritime transport, and is currently widespread Drawings: Juan Varela
throughout the Mediterranean and along the Atlantic
coast of Europe.

38 Monitoring Marine Invasive Species in Mediterranean MPAs: A strategy and practical guide for managers