If we can find a Invasive species Even in the paella, we should not surprise us that there are also on our coasts. In fact, there is an algae that seems harmless, but that requires maximum attention.
This is the species Codium fragilea type of green algae native to the Northwest Pacific that has proven to be a very aggressive invasive in our waters.
In fact, the Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge has already warned it and has included it in the Invasive species catalog.
Government warning: this algae is a very dangerous invasive species
Not for taking many years in Spanish territory a species ceases to be dangerous, for our environment. This is the case of Codium fragilewhich was first detected in Spain in 1966.
Then he identified again in the Galician seas in 1986. Precisely, that is the area where his presence has increased.
One of its main dangers is the great ability to adaptation to all kinds of marine habitats. From rocky or sandy substrates and with mud.
In fact, he has shown that he can survive both in the intertidal zone and in spaces more than 20 meters deep. Besides, It seems to have great wave resistance.
That last characteristic is the one that most worries the experts, since it facilitates dispersion. As? The sea currents fragment the algae, which allows vegetative reproduction and the colonization of new areas.
The ecological impact of ‘Codium fragile’ on native species
Although it may seem like a harmless algae, the presence of Codium fragile this altering local marine ecosystems significantlyespecially in Galicia.
This is because it generates competition and displaces other native species of the same genus as Codium tomentosum, Codium decorticatum and Codium fragile atlanticum.
In this way, it modifies habitats and benthic communities. In addition, algae are not the only ones harmed: their dense fronds affect the mobility of large invertebrates, and They also increase sedimentation in the seabed.
This invasive species not only affects the environment in Spain
Beyond ecological damages, Codium fragile It also has negative effects on the marine crop industry and in port facilities.
For example, you can cover bivalve banks buried in sediments, obstruct capture dredges or grow on crop filters. That is to say, causes great economic damage.
In addition, when embedding in some structures of the ports and fishing networks it causes many extra inconveniences.
The Ministry of Ecological Transition is mobilized against this invasive species
The first step to fight Codium fragile It has been the Inclusion in the Spanish catalog of invasive exotic species made by the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge.
In doing so, the need to implement measures for control and eradication is recognized.
Among the proposed strategies are the application of quarantine, environmental education programs to prevent their propagation and the conservation of natural communities that hinder the settlement of this invasive species.
