Caulerpa taxifolia: 18 years of infestation in the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

After 18 years of invasion, the situation with Caulerpa taxifolia in the Mediterranean is out of control. Eradication is no longer an option. The last hope remaining is in the use of biological control measures. This introduced species, of aquarium origin, has already reached six Mediterranean countries and more than 131 km2 of coastal area are affected. The alga deeply modifies the habitat and has incisive impacts on the native flora and fauna. Because of its presence in the aquarium trade all around the world, C. taxifolia is predicted to cause problems elsewhere as well. Recently, it was discovered in California and Australia.