General Description

There are a number of stalked Pyura species in Victorian waters, including P. australis, P. gibbosa and P. spinifera. They all have a rounded head on a long flexible stalk. They are distinguished most reliably by their internal structures. Colour is usually red or yellow. Body 5-10 cm long, stalk up to 30 cm long.

Biology

Some species are often covered by encrusting sponges (P. spinifera), other species are rarely overgrown.

Habitat

Attached to reefs, to depth of about 50 m

Reefs

Seagrass meadows

Sponge gardens

Soft substrates

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Southern Australia.

Species Group

Ascidians

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

30 cm

Diet

Plankton or Particles

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Species Code

spp.

Conservation Status

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