Grateloupia turuturu an Invasive Seaweed in Eastern Long Island Sound investigation into slowing its spread
Introduction
Long Island Sound is a complex and unique environment because of its glacial history and properties as an estuary. It has the capability to be a powerhouse for primary production, unfortunately, the sound has fallen victim to invasive species. Grateloupia turuturu is one such species, tormenting the natural flow of life in the coastal waters of Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York (Balcom and Yarish, 2006). This red alga grows year round and is well suited for warm waters (Mathieson, A., et al, 2008). Their ability to grow year round gives the seaweed an advantage amongst other competitors that tend to sprout in warmer…