Polycarpa fibrosa is a species of tunicate, a type of marine invertebrate, commonly known as a sea squirt. It belongs to the family Styelidae and is characterized by its fibrous tunic and its ability to filter feed.
Description & Characteristics
Polycarpa fibrosa typically grows to a maximum size of around 5 cm in length. Its body is covered in a tough, fibrous tunic, which gives it a rough texture. This tunic is usually a pale yellow or white color, although it can vary depending on the environment. The tunic is covered in numerous small, fleshy bumps, which are called papillae.
Habitat and Occurrence
Polycarpa fibrosa is a common species found in coastal waters worldwide. It is typically found attached to rocks, shells, or other solid substrates in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. The species is often abundant in areas with strong currents, which provide a constant supply of food and oxygen. Polycarpa fibrosa can also be found in estuaries and harbors, as well as in areas with higher levels of pollution. It is typically found in a variety of marine zones, including the neritic zone (the area of the ocean that extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf), the infralittoral zone (the shallow water area that is submerged at high tide), and the circalittoral zone (the area that is submerged at all times). This wide distribution and tolerance for varied environments make it a significant member of these marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Polycarpa fibrosa is classified within the Class Ascidiacea, which includes all sea squirts. This class belongs to the phylum Chordata, which also encompasses vertebrates. Polycarpa fibrosa is further categorized within the Order Stolidobranchia, which contains sea squirts with a relatively simple internal structure and a single opening for both inhalant and exhalant currents. Finally, Polycarpa fibrosa falls under the Family Styelidae, which includes sea squirts that are typically solitary and have a tough, leathery tunic.
Feeding
Polycarpa fibrosa is a filter feeder, meaning it obtains its food by filtering water through its body. It draws in water through an incurrent siphon, which is located on one side of the body. The water passes through a series of gill slits, where tiny food particles are trapped in a mucus net. The food particles are then transported to the gut, where they are digested. The filtered water is then expelled through an excurrent siphon located on the opposite side of the body. Polycarpa fibrosa plays an important role in marine ecosystems by consuming algae and bacteria, which helps to keep water clean and clear.
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