This
particular species features long, dark green, fronds with segmented
appendages. It is very similar to C. Mexicana, but its fronds are
spaced further apart and have a more uniform, tapered shape. It is
also much more tolerant to a wide range of temperatures and a voracious
grower in both the aquarium and in its natural environment. For
this reason it is the single most controversial species of
Caulerpa, as it can quickly take over non-native, nutrient rich
waters if introduced. Today, it is rarely seen in the
United States due to its recent addition to the Federal Noxious
Weed List and infiltration of non-local waters. It is currently
illegal to ship or transport this particular algae from any
location and possession is banned in the state of California. Despite
its reputation, there are many aquarium strains still in
propagation in aquariums throughout North America, as well as
Europe and Asia. It is occasionally observed growing in Florida
waters, but has not been a problem due to the abundance of
competing algae. Not palatable to fish or invertebrates.
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Aquarium
Care Information |
Scientific Name: Caulerpa
Taxifolia
Common Name: Fern Algae
Origin: Mediterranean,
Caribbean
Depth Collected: 4-40 Feet
Maximum Height : 10"
Growth Rate: Fast
Light: Moderate
Temperature: 60-84
Propagation: Fragmentation,
Sporulation
Difficulty: Easy
Food Value:
Not Palatable Nutrient Uptake:
Excellent Flow
Rate: Low to Moderate
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