General Description

Unbranched (rarely branched) alga with five rows of long branchlets (ramuli) tapering upward to tip, arranged in close intervals along the main axis (seen clearest in cross-section). Arises from coarse rhizome (stolon). Medium to dark green. Up to 50 cm long (thallus).

Biology

Tropical species related to this seaweed (in the genus Caulerpa) are used for ornamental decoration in household aquariums. Two forms of this alga are recognised Caulerpa longifolia f crispate and Caulerpa longifolia f longifolia.

Habitat

Tidal pools and subtidal reef on rough water coasts, to depth of 40 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

New Zealand and southern Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Green algae

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

50 cm

Diet

Photosynthetic - sunlight

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Identify

• Seaweeds and seagrasses

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed