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Attack of the killer algae - Eric Noel Muñoz

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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.

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Caulerpa is now found in Sydney Harbor and the southeast coast of Australia. But the original detection of the aquarium strain of Caulerpa is traced to the Mediterranean coastal country of:

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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

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