General Description
Rounded body with two openings (siphons) that project upward or sideways. Each individual often supports a variety of epiphytic organisms growing on the surface, giving a green-brown appearance. Up to 35 cm high.
Biology
These ascidians (sea squirts) often live in small groups on rocky areas. Their scientific name is derived from the stolons that extend from the base of the animal to secure it to the rocks. While they often appear green-brown because of encrusting overgrowth, their bodies are actually orange or pink.
Distribution
Southern temperate oceans.
Habitat
Pier piles, rocky shores and reefs, to depth of 15 m.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Solitary or small groups, often covered in encrusting algae.
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Colours
Green, Brown
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Maximum Size
35 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
CITES: Not listed, FFG Threatened List: Not listed, EPBC Act 1999: Not listed, IUCN Red List: Not listed
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Depths
Shore (0-1 m), 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
(Heller, 1878)
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Common Name
Cunjevoi
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Other Names
Sea Squirt , 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
stolonifera
