A long seaweed (typically 1-3m long) with wiry stems that have small, oval-shaped leaflets (up to 2cm long, sometimes toothed), with small spherical gas bladders (up to 3mm in diameter) attached to them. The stems are thin and cylindrical, with may branches radiating from it in a spiral pattern. When the plants is stretched out horizontally, its branches hand straight down. Small tubular projections may be present during reproductive period.
Thin, wiry, cylindrical stem with branches in a spiral pattern. Small leaflets (up to 2cm in length, sometimes toothed). Small gas bladders (diameter up to 3mm) attached to branches.
S. muticum grows on hard surfaces in intertidal and shallow subtidal areas. It has the potential to compete with native seaweeds, including ecologically-important kelp and eelgrass. It can also be a nuisance fouling organisms, attaching to aquaculture equipment, fishing nets, boats, etc.
S. muticum is a known invasive species in Europe and the west coast of North America but have recently been found in Halifax Harbour. It may be present in other areas of Nova Scotia.
S. muticum was first discovered on the West coast of North America in 1944. It was found in White Rock and Buccaneer Bay, British Columbia.
Ensure any watercraft, fishing gear, etc. is clean and free of debris and unwanted organisms before relocating to another area or body of water. Report any sightings to DFO. If possible, include a photo and/or collect and freeze a specimen.