Exotic algae threatens coral reef

San Jose ? Again an example of an highly invasive species that we can not control: Caulerpa sertularioides, a tropical algae, is rapidly colonizing one of the most important coral reefs of Costa Rica. The algae completely overgrows the reef, blokking the sunlight and suffocating the corals. The algae thrives on fertilizers from hotel golf courses and badly treated sewage. Marine biologist Cindy Fernandez describes the situation as an ecological disaster. About 80% of the reef has already been destroyed. The plague is very hard to control. This algae is the last challenge facing the Costa Rican authorities, that already have had many difficulties maintaining the coutries unique biodiversity.