Green macroalgal blooms are becoming a common response to increasing nutrient availability in coastal waters and estuaries. This study describes the first occurrence of a persistent macro algal bloom of the genus Anadyomene Lamoroux (Cladophorales, Anadyomenaceae) in Biscayne Bay, Florida. A molecular analysis sequencing the variable C1D2 region of the large subunit (LSU) nrDNA verified the morphological-based identification. Results indicate that the bloom is composed of two species: Anadyomene stellata, previously known for Florida and Biscayne Bay, but is for the first time reported to reach blooming abundances. The second species, A. linkiana, a diminutive perforate species from the Bahamas, represents a new record for the United States, and an expansion of its known ecological range from deep to shallow waters. Large patches of Anadyomene were detected in 2005. Intensive surveys based on a stratified random design, to visually estimate the percent cover of submerged aquatic vegetation, were conducted in the bloom area once a year from 2010 to 2012. Results show that the Anadyomene bloom covered an area of approximately 80 km2 of seagrass habitats. The Anadyomene spp. reached bloom densities in 2008, and has persisted through 2012. The spatial distribution of the bloom has been restricted to the central inshore section of the Bay, an area affected by canals and groundwater discharges. The persistent 75% cover reported for several sites has caused significant negative impacts to seagrass beds. This bloom occurring adjacent to metropolitan Miami, adds to the world trend of increasing green macroalgal blooms occurring at enriched coastal waters.
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