Chaetomorpha

Chaetomorpha
Chaetomorpha antennina
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Clade: Viridiplantae
Division: Chlorophyta
Class: UTC clade
Order: Cladophorales
Family: Cladophoraceae
Genus: Chaetomorpha
Kützing
Species

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Chaetomorpha is a genus of green algae in the family Cladophoraceae.[1] Members of this genus may be referred to by the common name sea emerald.

Description

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Algae of this genus are made up of macroscopic filaments of cylindrical cells.[2] The genus is characterized by its unbranched filaments, making it distinctive; its closest relatives are branching species of the genus Cladophora.[3]

Species

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Chaetomorpha crassa
Chaetomorpha ligustica
Chaetomorpha spiralis illustration

There are about 50 species.[3] Species include:[1]

Uses

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These algae are popular with aquarium hobbyists. Dumping of aquarium specimens into waterways has led to the establishment of nonnative Chaetomorpha populations, which degrades ecosystems when the algae become invasive species. Biologists recommend boiling, microwaving, freezing, or desiccating aquarium Chaetomorpha before disposing of it to avoid inadvertent releases.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b Guiry, M. D. (2004). Chaetomorpha. In: Guiry, M. D. & Guiry, G. M. (2017). AlgaeBase. Accessed through: World Register of Marine Species on 9 August 2017.
  2. ^ Jones, W. E. A Key to the Genera of the British Seaweeds. 1962,. Fields Studies Vol.1 no.4 pp.1 - 32
  3. ^ a b Leliaert, Frederik, et al. (2011). Atypical development of Chaetomorpha antennina in culture (Cladophorales, Chlorophyta). Phycological Research 59.2 91-97.
  4. ^ Odom, R. L., et al. (2014). Alternatives to release: Efficient methods for disposal of excess or unwanted aquarium macroalgae in the genus Chaetomorpha. Invasive Plant Science and Management 7(1) 76-83.