Skip to main content

Attack of the killer algae - Eric Noel Muñoz

411,033 Views

4,951 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

As benign as it may look up close, the tiny seaweed Caulerpa taxifolia can wreak quite a bit of havoc on coastal ecosystems. This super algae is very adaptable; it also grows fast and spreads easily. Eric Noel Muñoz gives the details of this plant’s incredible invasion, shedding light on the risks of introducing invasive species into new ecosystems.

WatchThink Dig Deeper Discuss
Fragmentation refers to a tiny piece of the Caulerpa seaweed getting disconnected. The disconnected piece can then start the growth of a new colony. Therefore, touching the Caulerpa, anchors, and fishing lines can lead to fragmentation, that is why the eradication technique in Carlsbad involved:

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Eric Noel Munoz
  • Animator Eli Enigenburg
  • Narrator Eric Noel Munoz

More from Awesome Nature