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Heinz Mahler
Dabei seit : 02.08.2006
 51  836  13 |
Bryopsis species are potentially invasive. Like the troublesome Caulerpa taxifolia, the genus produces chemical defenses that are toxic to most herbivorous organisms and easily reproduces vegetatively from the smallest fragments. Therefore, if environmental conditions occur that support fast growth of this species, it may become more competitive and possibly dominant. Bryopsis is a well-known pest alga species in commercial aquariums, the aquarium trade and the home aquariums. Often referred to as Sea Ferns, the soft feathery algae are usually introduced to aquariums on live rock. The nutrient rich water in aquariums provides the perfect habitat for the fast growth of Bryopsis, and control in the aquarium habitat is a constant challenge.
Various sacoglossans (Elysia ornata, Elysia rufescens etc.) have been reported to feed on the filamentous green alga Bryopsis as well as also Sea hares. My experience with Bryopsis feeders, however, is that they consume the alga so fast that it is difficult to supply them with adequate food so they would soon starve to death.
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