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.

Habitat

Reef areas, to depth of 20 m.

Reefs

Seagrass meadows

Sponge gardens

Distribution guide

Worldwide. Southern and eastern Australia.

Species Group

Ascidians

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

30 cm

Diet

Plankton or Particles

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed