Caulerpa brachypus, a Pacific algae, has been released in Florida waters by ship ballast water or improper disposal of aquariums. It scatters quickly and dramatically disrupts ecosystem. Stormwater runoff fuels the algae that has been identified on large portions of the coral reefs off the coast of Palm Beach County and is moving northward. "We hope it won't take over the local sea grasses, but if it becomes as thick as out here in the reefs, it will", say Mark Perry of the Florida Oceanographic Society. Caulerpa brachypus has no veins in its leaves but seagrass leaves have veins. The native, Caulerpa prolifera (left), has leaves that are larger than branchypus and often a second blade will grow out of the first (see circle in photo). Both photos show actual size. If you see this algae in the lagoon or in ocean take a small sample, seal in a plastic bag, and contact: FL DEP; 772-873-6590; email: Cynthia. Lott@dep.state.fl.us.