Port of San Diego declares emergency over invasive seaweed in southern bay

The Port of San Diego has declared a local state of emergency following an invasive algae infestation in South San Diego Bay.

The algae, called Caulerpa prolifera, was first discovered in the bay in September 2023, with additional patches appearing in and adjacent to Coronado Bay, a press release from the port said.

This type of tropical algae “grows and reproduces very quickly, suffocating native seagrasses and sea grasses, and can harm marine life through habitat loss,” the press release states. .

In San Diego Bay, invaders threaten eelgrass, a type of plant that local fish, birds and green sea turtles rely on for food and shelter. There are about 2,600 acres of eelgrass throughout the bay, 1,900 of which are in the southern zone, according to the port.

“It is absolutely critical that we locate and remove or cover every small part of Kaulapa as quickly as possible to protect the strong and healthy ecosystem of our Bay,” said Frank San Diego Port and Harbor Commission Chairman. Arterson said. stated in a statement. “Caulerpa is also a potential threat to local jobs and businesses.”

The infestation is likely the result of a release into the bay from a saltwater aquarium, according to the port, as the cowrapa is popular as an ornamental plant despite being banned in California.

Possession, sale or transportation of this type of seaweed within the state will result in fines ranging from $500 to $10,000 for each violation, port officials said.

Urtasun highlighted the environmental risks associated with this type of invasive algae, noting that outbreaks occurred in the Mediterranean Sea in the 1980s, causing millions of dollars in losses for the region’s fishing and tourism industries.

“We won’t allow that in San Diego Bay,” he said. “Together with our many local, state and federal partners, we are working quickly and carefully to protect both our environmental and economic interests.”