Wild Kappaphycus cf. striatus Growing in a Mangrove Stand in Siasi, Sulu, Philippines

Abstract

We report the presence of Kappaphycus cf. striatus growing in a mangrove stand in Buan, Siasi, Philippines. These plants might have originated from the wild or nearby extensive seaweed farming areas. This is the first account of wild Kappaphycus growing in a mangrove habitat and exhibiting adaptive strategies to avoid desiccation stress. These seaweeds formed scars on their thalli tips and displayed a dense morphology to reduce the surface area exposed to air. This report provides new insights into the capacity of Kappaphycus to adapt to adverse environmental conditions which could improve their chances of survival in a changing climate but could also pose a threat to other ecosystems and natural biota.