Aplidium clivosum is a colonial tunicate species found in the marine environments of the world. These colonial organisms form distinct colonies composed of individual zooids that work together.
Description & Characteristics
Aplidium clivosum colonies are typically characterized by their distinctive appearance and structure. The colonies are often encrusting and can be quite large, reaching up to 10 cm in diameter. The zooids within the colony are tightly packed and have a characteristic shape.
Habitat and Occurrence
Aplidium clivosum is commonly found in a variety of marine environments, often inhabiting shallow water areas. They are particularly prevalent in the intertidal zone, where they attach to rocks, shells, and other hard substrates. This species is often found in the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Aplidium clivosum is classified within the phylum Chordata and belongs to the Class Ascidiacea, Order Aplousobranchia, and Family Polyclinidae. This family encompasses a wide variety of colonial tunicates known for their diverse forms and adaptations.
Feeding
Like other tunicates, Aplidium clivosum feeds by filtering microscopic food particles from the surrounding water. They have specialized structures called siphons that draw in water, which is then passed through a filtering mechanism called a branchial basket. This process allows them to extract essential nutrients from the water.
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