Algae ID, and what eats it?
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Mike J.
2500 Club Member
Through the process of ruling out I have come to the conclusion that it is Dictyosphaeria. Also known as Buttonweed, but under the listing of Bubble Algae. Diadema urchins are known to eat it. Also lists gastropods (shelled and shell-less snails), but not which ones. Also Mithraculus crabs.
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skinz78
10K Club member
Hmm I'm thinking it may be Colpomenia sinuosa? I wonder what eats it?
In the process of searching I've found this ID database that's pretty good! Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute-lo
In the process of searching I've found this ID database that's pretty good! Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute-lo
Mike J.
2500 Club Member
I'm actually working right now, so I wish I could respond better; I will later. I've studied that site and the algae that you suspect. I'm still thinking the same thing - buttonweed. I don't see any openings in the algae in your picture, its more like bubbles.
You have a distinct advantage because you can see it.
In any case, even if I am wrong, I would think the same animals would eat it.
Sorry, I researched through books, but I'll try to provide a site later.
Is there a reason you're searching Pacific Panama? Where did your rock come from?
You have a distinct advantage because you can see it.
In any case, even if I am wrong, I would think the same animals would eat it.
Sorry, I researched through books, but I'll try to provide a site later.
Is there a reason you're searching Pacific Panama? Where did your rock come from?
Mike J.
2500 Club Member
Dictyosphaeria cavernosa Click on the photo.
It might be one of those that you'd need a microscope to tell the difference.
Here's one from the Caribbean: http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=caribbean_diving_guide&id=492
One thing is for sure, it is an invasive algae.
It might be one of those that you'd need a microscope to tell the difference.
Here's one from the Caribbean: http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=caribbean_diving_guide&id=492
One thing is for sure, it is an invasive algae.
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Mike J.
2500 Club Member
I've searched extensively and can't find a Dictyosphaeria picture that's brown. So, maybe you nailed it. It certainly is a very close genus and I would treat it the same and stay on top of it. Because as you know it is highly invasive.
