Mystery Macro / Seagrass?!

[xcreonx]

Hey guys. I've posted this in Anthony's forum as well, in hopes of a positive ID:

I found this little beauty washed up on the beach here in Sarasota (on the Gulfside of FL.).
<img src="http://www.goodmorningheartache.com/newtank/macro1.jpg">
<img src="http://www.goodmorningheartache.com/newtank/macro2.jpg">
<img src="http://www.goodmorningheartache.com/newtank/macro3.jpg">


I've searched and searched and can't seem to find anything that comes close to an ID on it. One of my Florida ID books has a 'Midrib Seagrass' (Halofila bailonis) that kinda resembles this specimen....but not really...

it does have runners and roots very similar to the manatee grass i always find out here. i stuck it in my fuge a week ago and it has already sprouted a new runner and a new 'bud'...which you can see in the last photo (it's the runner on the top right)

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

thanks!

-Joe

 

[xcreonx]

oh, and there is some chaeto mixed in with the plant / macro....those aren't little roots or anything

 

[xcreonx]

ok guys, i think i just figured out what it is:

Halophila engelmanii or ' Star Grass'...

http://www.floridaconservation.org/psm/habitat/grassid.htm

 

[Samala]

Certainly looks like it http://www.sms.si.edu/irlspec/Halop_engelm.htm

>Sarah

 

[Dero]

So any chance I could get some? Please.

 

[Samala]

Hey I want some too if you're gonna take orders.. Stargrass isnt very common according to that site like I posted, so maybe its best we not disturb a whole bunch of beds. But if you were going to grab a few plants.. I'd love some.

 

[xcreonx]

well i've been diving and snorkeling here for many years and this is the first time i've seen these... it was washed up on the beach, not planted in the sand.

if i find some more washed up, perhaps i might be able to spread the love, but i think was a once in a while find...

i WON'T go digging up seagrass beds! don't even ask! it's illegal and i am more environmentally concerned than most.

but i'll keep y'all informed!