EMILY de CAMP HERBARIUM

COMMON NAME: Green Fleece
OTHER COMMON NAME(S):
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Codium fragile
FAMILY: Codiaceae
COMMUNITY: Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV)
STATUS: Non-native ~ Native of Japan
LIFESPAN: Biennial or Perennial
HEIGHT: to 16 inches
FLOWERTING TIME:
FRUITING TIME:
DISTRIBUTION:

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Dark green ~ Even, Y-shaped horizontal branches ~ Creeping shapeless, ropelike and spongy ~ Carpet-like mat on substrate ~ End with swollen structure



GENERAL INFORMATION: The name of this genus (Codium) is Greek for “skin of an animal” and refers to its soft texture.

Green algae, such as Green Fleece, are among the most numerous algae with over 5,000 known species. This specie was accidentally introduced into the United State, possibly on the hull of a ship. Since Green Fleece has no natural predators, it has becomes well established and can be found floating or attached. When broken apart, the ends seal themselves to prevent water loss.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails. This information is presented for educational purposes.