This species of Caulerpa features long, stiff, uprights with finger-like clusters of notched blades attached from a long rhizome. It is typically found growing intertwined with sea grass beds, channels and ledges in shallow water habitats to about 10ft deep. When found in deeper habitats it’s growth is much smaller and stunted. This species of Caulerpa prefers sandy substrate, but will attach to rocks and coral fragments. It is very hardy in the aquarium and is relatively undemanding in its needs. All Caulerpa species should be pruned back to encourage new growth and to prevent die off in the aquarium. It can be safely buried in the sand bed or left to attach on their own as they grow. Not palatable to fish and invertebrates.
Scientific Name: Caulerpa cupressoides
Common Name: Zipper Algae
Origin: Atlantic, Caribbean
Depth Collected: 1-15 Feet
Maximum Height : 8″
Growth Rate: Slow
Light: Moderate to High
Temperature: 74-86
Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation
Difficulty: Easy
Food Value: Not Palatable
Nutrient Uptake: Fair
Flow Rate: Moderate