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Feathery
seaweed
Caulerpa sertularioides
Family Caulerpaceae |
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This
feathery seaweed is often mistaken for seagrass. It appears to grow
more thickly in the coral rubble area, but patches of it may also
be found in the seagrass lagoon.
This seaweed grows well in calm, shallow lagoons up to 4m. It is commonly
associated with seagrasses. It has fine hairs that anchor the seaweed
to the surface. Like other seaweeds, this seaweed appears to be seasonally
abundant. On Chek Jawa, preliminary
results of a transact survey suggest it is found in a few patches
in the seagrass lagoon as well.
There are two feathery seaweeds commonly seen on Chek Jawa. The Feathery
seaweed is wider and often has a 'waist' at the tip; the Comb
seaweed (Caulerpa taxifolia) is narrower and has no 'waist'.
Role in the habitat: The seaweed
is eaten by some species of sea hares.
Human uses: Feathery seaweed is
reported to be edible, to have antibacterial, antifungal and antitumor
properties, and to be used to treat high blood pressure and goiter.
However, some Caulerpa species produce toxins to protect themselves
from browsing fish. This also makes them toxic to humans. |
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quick
facts
6-8cm long, common in the coral rubble area. Also seen in
the seagrass lagoon. |
