Polycarpa errans is a solitary tunicate species belonging to the family Styelidae. It is a common inhabitant of various marine environments, exhibiting a distinct appearance and interesting life cycle.
Description & Characteristics
Polycarpa errans, like other tunicates, possesses a sac-like body encased in a tunic made of a cellulose-like substance called tunicin. It typically measures up to 5 cm in length. The species is characterized by its distinctive bumpy surface and its siphons, which are the openings for water intake and expulsion. The siphons are located at opposite ends of the body, and the inhalant siphon is often surrounded by a prominent, fleshy lip.
Habitat and Occurrence
Polycarpa errans is a common inhabitant of shallow coastal waters, particularly in rocky intertidal zones and tide pools. It can be found attached to rocks, seaweeds, and other marine substrates. The species thrives in a variety of marine zones, including the intertidal, subtidal, and infralittoral zones. Its distribution is widespread, with occurrences reported in various parts of the world, including the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Taxonomy
Polycarpa errans is classified within the phylum Chordata, belonging to the Class: Ascidiacea, Order: Stolidobranchia, and Family: Styelidae. This classification reflects the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics with other tunicates, placing it within a diverse group of marine invertebrates.
Feeding
Polycarpa errans is a filter feeder, drawing in water through its inhalant siphon. As water flows through the body, microscopic food particles like plankton are trapped by a mucous net in the pharynx. The captured food particles are then transported to the digestive system for processing, while the filtered water is expelled through the exhalant siphon. This feeding strategy enables the species to thrive in nutrient-rich environments, contributing to the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems.
Image References