Caulerpa racemosa

(Forsskål) J.Agardh 1873

Grape Macroalgae

Range: Circumtropical

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow coral rubble areas, sometimes extending onto sandy areas.

Aquarium Suitability: This light green vine-like Caulerpa has bunches of miniature grape-like beads intertwined on short and low growing branchlets, and forms spreading carpets. The 'grapes or spheres' range in size from 1 - 3 mm. Most fish do not seem to like its taste, yet have seen Tangs eating it occasionally. It is usually referred to as "Grape" macroalgae and this particular species and the one below are highly recommended for lighted refugia where rapid plant growth and nutrient export is beneficial.

In the Philippines, it is eaten fresh as a salad, or salted so it can be eaten later. Small quantities are also exported to Japan. It is also eaten in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is also reported to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, and to be used to treat high blood pressure and rheumatism. The seaweed is also fed to livestock and fish.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Chlorophyta

Class: Ulvophyceae

Order: Bryopsidales

Family: Caulerpaceae

Genus: Caulerpa