Eudistoma hepaticum is a species of colonial tunicate, a marine invertebrate belonging to the family Polycitoridae. These organisms are commonly found in coastal waters, playing a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Eudistoma hepaticum colonies are typically composed of numerous small, individual zooids, each resembling a sac-like structure. The zooids are typically yellow or orange in color and have a distinctive, lobed appearance. Each zooid possesses two siphons, one for inhaling water and the other for expelling water. The size of the colonies can vary, but they are often found to be relatively small, reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters in diameter.
Habitat and Occurrence
Eudistoma hepaticum is a common inhabitant of shallow, intertidal and subtidal zones. These colonial tunicates are commonly found in the intertidal zone, which is the area between high and low tide marks. They are also known to occur in subtidal zones, which are areas below the low tide mark. Their presence is often associated with rocky substrata, kelp forests, and other marine habitats.
Taxonomy
Eudistoma hepaticum belongs to the Class Ascidiacea, a group of filter-feeding marine invertebrates commonly known as sea squirts. Within this class, it is classified under the Order Aplousobranchia, which is characterized by the absence of a distinct branchial sac in the zooids. The species falls under the Family Polycitoridae, which includes other colonial tunicates known for their complex and diverse colony forms.
Feeding
Like other tunicates, Eudistoma hepaticum is a filter feeder. It obtains its nourishment by drawing water into its body through its incurrent siphon. The water passes through a filter mechanism, trapping microscopic food particles such as phytoplankton and other organic matter. The filtered water is then expelled out through the excurrent siphon.
Image References