General Description
Colonies of zooids that are usually arranged in parallel rows. The rows of zooids are grouped into pod-like structures, each pod with a communal siphon or opening in the centre. Generally coloured white with patterns of yellow, brown or purple. Colony up to 30 cm wide, zooids 1-2 mm long.
Biology
On some reefs, these ascidians form flat sheets of zooids rather than the pod-shaped colonies with a central opening.
Distribution
Worldwide. Southern and eastern Australia.
Habitat
Reef areas, to depth of 20 m.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Colony of zooids, pod or encrusting forms, white with yellow and brown patterning.
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Maximum Size
30 cm
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Habitats
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Diet
Plankton or Particles
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Endemicity
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Commercial
No
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Conservation Statuses
DSE Advisory List: Not listed, EPBC Act 1999: Not listed, IUCN Red List: Not listed
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Depths
Shallow (1-30 m)
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Water Column Locations
On or near seafloor
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Taxon Name
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Scientific Author
(Herdman, 1891)
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Common Name
Ascidian
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Kingdom
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Phylum
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Subphylum
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Class
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Order
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Family
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Genus
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Species Name
anceps