Page 52 - Invasive_Species_2013

Mediterranean invasive species factsheet

ALGAE

Reproduction Common name: not assigned

identification

Scientific Name:
Womersleyella setacea
Picture

Key identifying features
Brief history
Filamentous alga, rose-red to brownish in colour,
usually epiphytic and forming perennial, extensive,
dense cotton-wool-like tufts 1 cm high.

Accurate identification might need to be checked by a
Womersleyella setacea. Photo: E. Ballesteros
specialist in this group. It can only be identified under
a binocular microscope. Plants form dense
monospecific mats of prostrate and erect filamentous Reproduction
branches. Prostrate filaments anchor the thallus to Despite the species’ abundance, Mediterranean
the substrate by means of rhizoids, and erect populations seem to show only vegetative
filaments are usually very little branched and reproduction, primarily by fragmentation.
composed of segments 50–100 μm in diameter.
Filaments are not corticated and comprise one
central cell surrounded by four pericentral cells.

Field identification signs and habitat
It is usually found at depths below 15 m, and mainly
in dimly lit habitats (with a preference for low
temperatures) such as coralligenous outcrops.

Womersleyella setacea. Photo: E. Cebrian

Monitoring Marine Invasive Species in Mediterranean MPAs: A strategy and practical guide for managers 49