Botrylloides crystallinus, commonly known as the “crystal colonial tunicate,” is a fascinating marine invertebrate belonging to the tunicate family Styelidae. This species forms colonies of small, translucent individuals that are commonly found in intertidal and subtidal zones worldwide.
Description & Characteristics
Botrylloides crystallinus colonies are typically characterized by their translucent, gelatinous appearance. They often appear as flat, encrusting sheets that can reach up to several centimeters in diameter. The individual zooids within the colony are small, measuring only a few millimeters in length. These zooids are embedded within a common tunic, which provides structural support and protection for the colony.
Habitat and Occurrence
Botrylloides crystallinus is a widespread species found in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The species is particularly common in the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, where it thrives on a variety of hard substrates. Botrylloides crystallinus is commonly found in the infralittoral and circalittoral marine zones, often clinging to rocks, piers, and the hulls of boats.
Taxonomy
Botrylloides crystallinus belongs to the Class Ascidiacea, Order Stolidobranchia, and Family Styelidae. The tunicate family Styelidae includes several other colonial species, many of which share similar morphological features with Botrylloides crystallinus.
Feeding
Like other tunicates, Botrylloides crystallinus is a filter feeder. Each individual zooid within the colony possesses an incurrent siphon that draws in water containing phytoplankton and other small particles. These particles are then filtered out by a specialized structure known as the branchial basket, located within the zooid’s body. After the food particles are captured, they are transported to the digestive system for processing. Botrylloides crystallinus plays a significant role in marine ecosystems by consuming phytoplankton, which helps to regulate primary productivity and nutrient cycling.
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