Asparagopsis armata

Other names: Red Algae, Polysiphonia rufolanosa, Polysiphonia vagabunda, Falkenbergia rufolanosa, Falkenbergia vagabunda, Falkenbergia olens

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Asparagopsis armata is a species of seaweed sometimes referred to as red algae. It is also known as Polysiphonia rufolanosa, Polysiphonia vagabunda, Falkenbergia rufolanosa, Falkenbergia vagabunda, or Falkenbergia olens. It is native to the Atlantic Ocean, where it was first described in the 19th century, and its range is now widespread throughout the world.

This algae is able to live in different conditions and adapt to different environments, avoiding competition with other species. Its importance lies mainly in the fact that it is a rich source of various organic substances, including bromoforms, which can reduce methane production in cattle. On the other hand, Asparagopsis armata can threaten native seaweed species by displacing them from their natural habitats. Although it is an invasive species, it is also being investigated for potential use in aquaculture and the pharmaceutical industry.