Eudistoma ritteri is a solitary tunicate, a member of the phylum Chordata, that is commonly found in marine environments. Like other tunicates, Eudistoma ritteri is a filter feeder, drawing in water and extracting food particles. This species is distinguished by its unique appearance and its preference for specific marine habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Eudistoma ritteri is a solitary ascidian, meaning it lives independently rather than in colonies. It has a distinct, elongated body shape, often described as resembling a vase or a pitcher. The tunic, the outer covering of the animal, is typically a translucent to opaque white color. The size of Eudistoma ritteri can vary, but adults generally reach a maximum length of around 5 cm.
Habitat and Occurrence
Eudistoma ritteri is an inhabitant of the intertidal and subtidal zones, with a depth range extending to approximately 10 meters. This species is frequently found in shallow, rocky habitats, often attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, and seaweeds. Its distribution is primarily concentrated in the temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean, including the western coast of North America. Eudistoma ritteri is commonly found in the neritic zone, the marine zone that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Eudistoma ritteri is classified within the phylum Chordata, which encompasses all animals with a notochord, a flexible rod that provides structural support. It belongs to the Class Ascidiacea, a group of marine invertebrates that includes sea squirts and tunicates. Eudistoma ritteri is further categorized within the Order Aplousobranchia, characterized by simple, sac-like body structures. Finally, it is assigned to the Family Polycitoridae, a family of tunicates with a wide range of shapes and sizes.
Feeding
Eudistoma ritteri, like other tunicates, is a filter feeder. It draws in water through an incurrent siphon, a tube-like structure that acts as its mouth. The water passes through a pharynx, where tiny cilia, hair-like projections, create a current to trap food particles such as plankton and algae. The filtered water then exits the body through an excurrent siphon, a second tube-like structure. This continuous feeding mechanism ensures a steady supply of nutrients for Eudistoma ritteri.
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