SCUBA DIVERS
The help of SCUBA divers is critical to finding new infestations of Caulerpa in the wild. You can help by learning what Caulerpa looks like and keeping an eye out for it on your dives.
There are many species of Caulerpa that are used in the aquarium trade that could be released into the wild. Though many of them are tropical species, Caulerpa taxifolia and Caulerpa racemosa have both taken over large areas of seafloor in temperate waters due to their cold tolerance. Because Caulerpa is only native in the United States in Hawaii and some parts of Florida, divers should be on the lookout for all species of Caulerpa, which have many consistent features between them. All are bright green, have a runner by which it spreads, and upright fronds (Identification).
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. It can grow in calm or rough waters. Fragments of Caulerpa do not float and it is therefore not likely to be found on docks, boat hulls or in ballast water.
If you think you have found Caulerpa in the wild:
- Note as much information as possible (location, depth, bottom type, size of the patch).
- Record the location with a GPS if possible.
- Take a photo if possible.
- Collect a small piece and press it flat in newspaper (be careful - even a 1-mm piece broken off can start a new infestation).
Report the sighting and it will be investigated.
Click here to report a sighting of Caulerpa in the wild or in a pet store.
Click here to learn how to identify Caulerpa.
Thank you for your help. New infestations will most likely be detected by the SCUBA diving community. A map of surveys done for Caulerpa in California is available here.