This species of Caulerpa features small, irregular branched uprights with a series of flat serrated blades. It’s a Pacific species that made it’s way into the United States through tropical fish importers. It’s currently much harder to find due to stricter import regulations with Caulerpa species, especially in California. Its native to shallow water habitats, growing on small rocks and coral fragments. This smaller sized specimen is very hardy and will not grow too large in the aquarium. It’s somewhat palatable but it is mostly left alone due to its stiff composition.
Scientific Name: Caulerpa serrulata
Common Name: Sawtooth Algae
Origin: Indo Pacific, Asia
Depth Collected: 1-15 Feet
Maximum Height : 5″
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light: Moderate
Temperature: 78-86
Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation
Difficulty: Easy
Food Value: Somewhat Palatable
Nutrient Uptake: Good
Flow Rate: Low to Moderate