The Purple Asicidan, scientifically known as Eudistoma reginum, is a fascinating marine invertebrate belonging to the tunicate family. Its vibrant purple hue and unique morphology make it a captivating sight in the underwater world.
Description & Characteristics
Eudistoma reginum, commonly referred to as the Purple Asicidan, is a colonial tunicate characterized by its distinctive purple coloration. These colonial organisms are typically found in clusters, forming extensive mats on various substrates. The individual zooids, or individual animals within the colony, are relatively small, with a maximum size of a few centimeters. These zooids are connected by a common tunic, which gives the colony its overall shape and structure.
Habitat and Occurrence
Eudistoma reginum thrives in a variety of marine environments, showcasing its adaptability. Primarily found in the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans, this species can be observed from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. The species is also prevalent in the neritic zone, which encompasses the coastal waters extending to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Eudistoma reginum belongs to the Class: Ascidiacea, Order: Aplousobranchia, and Family: Polycitoridae. This classification places it within a diverse group of marine invertebrates, reflecting its evolutionary lineage and relationships with other tunicates.
Feeding
Like many other tunicates, Eudistoma reginum is a filter feeder. Its feeding mechanism relies on the capture of plankton and other microscopic organisms suspended in the water column. As water flows through its siphons, the animal traps food particles using its intricate feeding apparatus, filtering out nutrients for sustenance.
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