Invasive Limu
A pleasant crunch on the tooth with mild saltiness, good for both poke and salad. Unfortunately Grasilaria salicornia limu is also non-native. Lacking local predators, it spreads unabated, smothering entire coral reefs and crowding out local species like limu manauea. This particular specimen was pulled from He`eia Kai as part of an effort by the fishpond there to contain and reduce the spread of of the problematic limu throughout Kaneohe Bay.
They say Grasilaria salicornia isn't as flavorful as manauea, but it's nothing to turn up one's nose at either. Today's "containment" will be tomorrow's meal.
Further reading about invasive limu and He`eia:
→ History of He`eia Fishpond
→ Fishpond symbol of ingenuity - In relation to history, and it's importance to today.
→ Alien seaweed choking reef off Waikiki Beach
I have been trying to find where I can buy the brown seaweed from Hawaii (Grasilaria Salicornia). It was a daily staple in our family. I Can't find it here in the mainland. Hope you can help!
I've heard reports of ogo (nearly identical) and manauea in Southern California. In what general area do you live? If we can zero in a little more, I can
ask around to see if anyone has leads. Feel to reply by email to alan@maona.net.
You can order this fresh salicorne on www.saltygreens.com
Thanks for the tip! They don't appear to ship to the United States, but do offer their wares to a numerous other locations.