Page 48 - Invasive_Species_2013

Mediterranean invasive species factsheet

ALGAE

Reproduction Common name: not assigned

identification

Scientific Name:
Lophocladia Iallemandii
Picture

Key identifying features
Lophocladia lallemandii is a red filamentous alga up
to 15 cm in height and pseudo-dichotomously Brief history
branched, which usually appears as a mat of red
filaments intertwined with themselves or with other
algae. Erect filaments 0.5 cm in diameter arise from a
basal disc. They are composed of one central cell
surrounded by four pericentral cells with very little
cortication (outer covering layer).

Field identification signs and habitat
It settles on all types of substrate (bare bedrock,
macroalgae on rocky bottoms, Posidonia oceanica
seagrass meadows and coralligenous communities).
This alga displays pronounced seasonal production,
with maximum development in summer and autumn
(when most individuals bear reproductive structures)
and a drastic decline in winter.
Lophocladia lallemandii. Photo: B. Weitzmann

Lophocladia lallemandii and Posidonia oceanica. Photo: I. Relanzón - OCEANA

Monitoring Marine Invasive Species in Mediterranean MPAs: A strategy and practical guide for managers 45