Styela yakutatensis is a species of tunicate, a marine invertebrate, commonly known as a sea squirt. It is a solitary ascidian, meaning it lives as an individual rather than in colonies. This species is found in the North Pacific Ocean, where it plays a role in the benthic ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Styela yakutatensis is a relatively small species of sea squirt, typically reaching a maximum size of 5 centimeters in length. The body is ovoid in shape with two siphons, one for inhaling water and the other for exhaling it. The tunic, the outer layer of the body, is leathery and often has a mottled appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
Styela yakutatensis is a common inhabitant of the intertidal and subtidal zones of the North Pacific Ocean. It prefers to attach itself to hard substrates like rocks, pilings, and the hulls of ships. This species has been observed in a variety of marine zones, including the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Styela yakutatensis is classified within the phylum Chordata, a group that includes all vertebrates, and the subphylum Tunicata, which encompasses all sea squirts. It belongs to the Class: Ascidiacea, Order: Stolidobranchia, and Family: Styelidae. These classifications reflect the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics among these marine invertebrates.
Feeding
Like all sea squirts, Styela yakutatensis is a filter feeder. It draws water into its body through the inhalant siphon, filtering out microscopic organisms like phytoplankton and zooplankton. These food particles are then trapped by mucus and transported to the digestive system. The filtered water is then expelled through the exhalant siphon.
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