Ulva rigida

C. Agardh 1823

Sea Lettuce

Range: Circumtropical

Natural Environment: Inhabits intertidal rocks, tidepools, and reef flats where nutrients are high, wave forces low and herbivores are somewhat reduced. Has a somewhat thin, flat and slightly ruffled leaf, often about 4 inches (10 cm) in length.

Aquarium Suitability: Rarely seen in the trade, yet when available will make a good food for herbivorous animals, yet not a long-term desired alga for aquariums. In nutrient-rich aquariums with bright light and few animals to eat it, it will grow nicely and may make for a nice display.

Potential Control Species: Fish: Acanthurus achilles, Acanthurus japonicus, Acanthurus leucosternon, Acanthurus lineatus, Acanthurus olivaceus, Acanthurus pyroferus, Ctenochaetus hawaiiensis, Ctenochaetus striatus, Naso brevirostris, Naso lituratus, Zebrasoma desjardinii, Zebrasoma flavescens, Zebrasoma scopas, Zebrasoma veliferum, Zebrasoma xanthurum, Siganus corallinus, Siganus guttatus, Siganus magnifica, and Siganus vulpinus

Urchins: Diadema setosum and Mespilia globulus

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Chlorophyta

Class: Ulvophyceae

Order: Ulvales

Family: Ulvaceae

Genus: Ulva

FYI: Previously classified under the genus Enteromorpha.