Scientists Monitor Changing Caulerpa on Aotea

Scientists studying the invasive Caulerpa seaweed on Aotea Great Barrier Island are seeing changes in both the seaweed and marine life.

This month, the Government gave $6.2 million to the Northland Regional Council to fight Caulerpa, which has spread to several islands near Parekura Bay.

Iwi, marine biologists, and DoC have battled the seaweed on Aotea since 2021.

Recent surveys show it’s reducing in some areas and shifting to reef habitats.

One fish species, the Two Spot Demoiselle, is now using Caulerpa in its mating process.

Marine biologists remain cautious, saying it’s too soon to know the long-term impact.

In Northland, new dredging technology is being developed, with plans to begin harvesting Caulerpa by May.

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