ANGLERS
We urge all anglers to learn what Caulerpa looks like and to keep an eye out for it. Anglers would most likely encounter fronds of it on their tackle if Caulerpa were snagged off the bottom or on their retrieved anchors if they were placed in a patch of Caulerpa.
Caulerpa can grow on mud, sand or rock, and in shallow or deep water. It grows low to the bottom, typically six to 12 inches high, with some fronds up to 24 inches long. It can grow in calm or rough waters. Fragments of Caulerpa do not float. Even a very small fragment can cause a new infestation.
If you think you have found Caulerpa on your fishing gear or anchor:
- Note as much information as possible (location, depth, bottom type, size of the patch).
- Record the location with a GPS or make a map.
- Carefully collect a small piece and press it flat in newspaper (DO NOT THROW ANY BACK).
- Take a photo if possible.
- Report the sighting and it will be investigated.