Styela plicata is a solitary tunicate commonly known as the “Styela Plicata“. It is a filter feeder that thrives in marine environments, particularly in the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. This species can be found from the lower limit of the intertidal zone down to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth, making it a characteristic inhabitant of neritic marine zones.
Description & Characteristics
The Styela Plicata is a solitary tunicate, meaning it lives individually, unlike its colonial counterparts. Its body is encased in a tough, leathery tunic, giving it a distinctive, somewhat rigid appearance. These tunicates can reach a maximum size of about 10 cm in length, showcasing their relatively small stature compared to other marine invertebrates.
Habitat and Occurrence
Styela plicata is a common inhabitant of various marine zones, including the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans. This widespread distribution allows them to thrive in diverse environments, adapting to varying depths and salinity levels. Their presence is most notable in the neritic zone, which extends from the lower intertidal zone to the edge of the continental shelf, indicating their preference for shallower water depths.
Taxonomy
Styela plicata is classified within the phylum Chordata, indicating its evolutionary connection to vertebrates. It belongs to the Class: Ascidiacea, which encompasses the tunicates, a group of marine filter feeders. Further classification places it within the Order: Stolidobranchia, characterized by its simple internal structures and lack of complex siphon systems. Lastly, it belongs to the Family: Styelidae, a family of tunicates known for their solitary, leathery-bodied forms.
Feeding
As a filter feeder, Styela plicata sustains itself by consuming plankton, tiny organisms that drift in the water. These organisms are drawn into the tunicate’s body through siphons, where they are filtered and consumed. This process helps remove particulate matter from the water, contributing to water clarity and overall ecosystem health.
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