Emergency declaration for invasive seaweed in San Diego Bay renewed
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The emergency declaration for an invasive algae found in the San Diego Bay has been renewed, the Port of San Diego announced Wednesday.
This comes two weeks after FOX 5/KUSI previously reported that someone’s decision to pour aquarium water into the bay is what led to the spread, causing the Port to spend nearly $100,000 in efforts to reverse the damage.
According to the Port, the seaweed, known as Caulerpa prolifera, was first discovered last September and has since then been found within and around the Coronado Cays.
RELATED: Aquarium water may have caused invasive seaweed in San Diego Bay
Since then, nearly 11,200 square feet of Caulerpa prolifera have been found in the area. Divers have been working to eliminate the invasive algae by covering them with a sealed barrier, blocking it from light, oxygen and tidal circulation, according to the Port.
Caulerpa seaweed is illegal to possess, sell or transport under California law.
Experts said the primary concerns are to protect marine life in San Diego Bay. The body of water has nearly 2,600 acres of eelgrass, including 1,900 in the South Bay, the Port said. Fish, birds and green sea turtles rely on eelgrass for food and shelter, and it is also a natural filter that enhances water and air quality, according to the Port.
The Port said if you have or sell saltwater aquariums, do not use Caulerpa or dump the water into places that could lead to the bay or ocean, including streets or storm drains.
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