Modeling the dispersal of the cryptogenic alga Chondria tumulosa (Rhodophyta, Ceramiales) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

A study modeling the dispersal of the invasive alga Chondria tumulosa in Papahānaumokuākea reveals that its spread is likely driven by fragments rafting on marine debris rather than tetraspores. Analysis using oceanographic data and connectivity modeling showed that while tetraspores had a negligible settlement rate (0.02%) at Kuaihelani, drifting fragments settled 195 times more effectively (3.85%), extending their potential range ~600 km further southeast toward the Main Hawaiian Islands. The findings highlight the role of marine flotsam in accelerating invasion dynamics and suggest targeted management strategies to mitigate its impact on benthic habitats.

Fumo, J. T., Powell, B. S., Kosaki, R. K., & Sherwood, A. R. (2024). Modeling the dispersal of the cryptogenic alga Chondria tumulosa (Rhodophyta, Ceramiales) in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Aquatic Invasions, 19(3), 259–273. https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2024.19.3.135377