Eudistoma obscuratum is a species of tunicate, commonly known as a sea squirt. These marine invertebrates are filter feeders, drawing water through siphons to extract food particles. Eudistoma obscuratum exhibits a solitary lifestyle, meaning they are found individually rather than in colonies.
Description & Characteristics
Eudistoma obscuratum is characterized by its fleshy, somewhat gelatinous body structure. The tunic, a protective outer layer, is typically translucent or semi-transparent, allowing some visibility of the internal organs. It features two siphons: an inhalant siphon, which draws water in for feeding, and an exhalant siphon, through which filtered water is expelled. These siphons are often positioned near the top of the body, facilitating efficient water flow.
Habitat and Occurrence
Eudistoma obscuratum is predominantly found in the intertidal zone, the region between high and low tides. This makes them a common inhabitant of rocky shores, tide pools, and other coastal environments. Their presence is often noted in the subtidal zone as well, extending their range to shallower depths of the ocean. They are commonly found in the Neritic zone, the marine zone extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Eudistoma obscuratum belongs to the Class: Ascidiacea, Order: Aplousobranchia, and Family: Polycitoridae. This family encompasses various species of colonial and solitary sea squirts, with Eudistoma obscuratum being a notable member.
Feeding
Eudistoma obscuratum is a filter feeder, drawing water through its inhalant siphon. Within the body, a specialized structure known as the pharynx, lined with cilia (tiny hair-like structures), filters out food particles such as plankton, algae, and organic debris. These particles are then transported to the gut for digestion. The filtered water is then expelled through the exhalant siphon, completing the feeding cycle.
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