An invasive species of seagrass has been on a steady march across the world, taking over ecosystems well beyond its native waters of the Red Sea, Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. Some have long wondered when it would reach the waters off the coast of Florida. Florida International University scientists say that day has arrived.
FIU marine scientist Justin Campbell has identified Halophila stipulacea growing in Key Biscayne’s Crandon Marina and nearby areas of Biscayne Bay. It is the first time this non-native species has been found in waters along the continental United States.
“I think this species could pose a considerable threat,” Campbell said. “There are several reports of it being able to outcompete native seagrasses in other areas across the Caribbean. It is plausible that this could also be true for seagrasses here in South Florida.”
A marina worker first noticed the seagrass last month and reached out to Campbell, who conducted tests to determine the species. Halophila stipulacea first started spreading its distribution with the opening of the Suez Canal in the late 1800s, hitching rides on the anchors and other parts of boats. By the early 2000s, it was found in the Caribbean.