Page 44 - Invasive_Species_2013

Mediterranean invasive species factsheet

ALGAE

Reproduction Common name: Killer algae Flattened fronds

identification

Scientific Name: Pinnules
Caulerpa taxifolia Upward
Picture opposite one
another
Key identifying features
Brief history
Caulerpa taxifolia is a light to dark green alga with
upright feather-like fronds. The fronds, up to 10 cm in
length, are flattened laterally and rise from a creeping
main stolon anchored by rhizoids to the substrate.
Small side branchlets (pinnules) attached to the
fronds are flattened and slightly curved upwards,
narrowing towards the tips.
Reproduction
Field identification signs and habitat Sexual reproduction of this alga in the
Mediterranean remains unknown, because only
C. taxifolia can colonize all types of available
male gametes have been found to date. However,
substrate including rocky, sandy and muddy
it reproduces vegetatively very successfully by
bottoms, sheltered and exposed habitats, and
fragmentation. During summer (June to
polluted or pristine waters from the surface down to
September) the stolon can grow up to 3.2 cm per
a depth of 80 m.

Caulerpa taxifolia. Photo: E. Ballesteros

Monitoring Marine Invasive Species in Mediterranean MPAs: A strategy and practical guide for managers 41