Three decades of Kappaphycus alvarezii (Rhodophyta) introduction to non-endemic locations.

Given the increase in demand for sustainable livelihoods for coastal villagers in developing countries and for the commercial eucheumoid Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) Doty, for the carrageenan industry, there is a trend towards introducing K. alvarezii to more countries in the tropical world for the purpose of cultivation. However, there is also increasing concern over the impact exotic species have on endemic ecosystems and biodiversity. Quarantine and introduction procedures were tested in northern Madagascar and are proposed for all future introductions of commercial eucheumoids (K. alvarezii, K. striatum and Eucheuma denticulatum). In addition, the impact and extent of introduction of K. alvarezii was measured on an isolated lagoon in the southern Lau group of Fiji. It is suggested that, in areas with high human population density, the overwhelming benefits to coastal ecosystems by commercial eucheumoid cultivation far outweigh potential negative impacts. However, quarantine and introduction procedures should be followed. In addition, introduction should only take place if a thorough survey has been conducted and indicates the site is appropriate. Subsequently, the project requires that a well designed and funded cultivation development programme, with a management plan and an assured market, is in place in order to make certain cultivation, and subsequently the introduced algae, will not be abandoned at a later date. KAPPAPHYCUS ALVAREZI