Need help identifying algae

[amarcon]

I need help identifying this algae. It was found off Pismo beach, CA last weekend (2/11/23). Its about 4" in length. Thank you for your help!

 

[kharmaguru]

Looks similar to Caulerpa taxifolia (feather caulerpa).

 

[Misled]

I agree with that guy^^^.

 

[amarcon]

Is it possible it could be Bryospsis plumosa?

 

[kharmaguru]

Is it possible it could be Bryospsis plumosa?

I see the similarity. What does the base of what you collected look like? Bryopsis would likely all come from a clumpy center with basically individual shoots - whereas caulerpa has a running rhizome from which single "leaves" sprout. You'd need to unravel your sample to see clearly.

 

[amarcon]

It was clumped

 

[griss]

It was clumped

Given that, I’m leaning toward B. Plumosa.