Caulerpa spp.

{this page will be updated periodically as more information becomes available}

There are certain native species of Caulerpa found in Florida
There are also non-native invasive Caulerpa species that can out-compete other marine algae, seagrasses and corals, forming monocultures in Florida
Caulerpa sp. are actively sold on the internet for the aquarium trade, which can lead to species introduction by emptying aquarium tanks in a waterbody

Certain practices have been labeled as causes for Caulerpa growth. Read what the DEP has to say on wastewater disposal as it relates to ocean outfalls, underground injection wells, and aquifer storage and recovery.

Caulerpa brachypus - non-native invader to Florida

Popular name: Mini Caulerpa
Range: Northern Tropical Pacific, South China Sea
Size: The individual blades reach a height of 5 cm (2 inches)

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Caulerpa prolifera - native to Florida

Popular name: Common Caulerpa
Range: Mediterranean, Tropical East and West Atlantic
Size: Forms long strap-like blades up to 30 cm (12 inches) high

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Caulerpa taxifolia - non-native invader in the Mediterranean, Australia and California

Popular name: None
Range: Tropical East and West Atlantic, Western Indian Ocean
Size: Stolons can be 45cm (18 inches) long with thalli that are15 cm (6 inches) high

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PBS produced a documentary on C. taxifolia. The topics are: