description Codium fragile Overview
Codium fragile is a marine green alga with dark green, forked, cylindrical branches whose soft, spongy texture results from its siphonous internal structure. Native to parts of the Pacific, several subspecies have spread widely beyond their original ranges and can colonize rocky shores, shellfish beds, and artificial surfaces. It is commonly called dead man's fingers and is studied both as seaweed and as an invasive coastal organism.
help Codium fragile FAQ
Why does Codium fragile feel soft and spongy?
Its dark green branches have a siphonous internal structure made of long continuous tubes rather than ordinary plant-like cells separated by many walls. This produces the characteristic spongy texture of this green alga. [Seaweed.ie description](https://www.seaweed.ie/descriptions/Codium_fragile.html)
Which Codium fragile form is associated with invasions outside the Pacific?
Codium fragile subsp. tomentosoides is the form most often discussed in invasion records. It has established populations in areas including the northwest Atlantic, northeast Pacific, New Zealand, Australia, and parts of Europe.
Why is Codium fragile sometimes called oyster thief?
The alga can attach to oyster shells and other hard surfaces, where dense growth can interfere with shellfish cultivation. That aquaculture problem led to the common name oyster thief.
What does Codium fragile look like in the field?
Look for dark green, forked, cylindrical branches with a soft, velvety or spongy feel. It commonly attaches to rocks, shells, and other hard coastal surfaces.
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