General Description

Colony of zooids that form patterns of two parallel rows. They are embedded in a matrix that creates soft, encrusting formations. Colour varies, including orange, yellow, white, blue-grey and purple. Colony up to about 60 cm across.

Biology

These ascidians are usually seasonal, being less common in warmer months. They may have spread throughout the world as a fouling species on hulls of ships.

Habitat

Temperate and tropical seas, on reefs, jetty piles and seagrass areas, to depth of 20 m.

Reefs

Seagrass meadows

Sponge gardens

Distribution guide

Worldwide.

Species Group

Ascidians

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

60 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