Trididemnum cerebriforme, commonly known as the “brain-shaped trididemnum”, is a colonial tunicate found in marine environments. It is a member of the family Didemnidae, a group of colonial ascidians known for their diverse forms and vibrant colors.
Description & Characteristics
Trididemnum cerebriforme, as its name suggests, resembles a brain in its shape. Its colonies can reach a maximum size of several centimeters, and they are characterized by their fleshy, convoluted surfaces. The color of the colony can vary from shades of white and cream to pale pink and yellow. Trididemnum cerebriforme colonies are composed of numerous small, individual zooids, each containing a sac-like body with two siphons for filter feeding.
Habitat and Occurrence
Trididemnum cerebriforme is a common sight in shallow, tropical and subtropical waters. It typically inhabits coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. This species is often found in the intertidal zone, with a depth range extending from the surface down to approximately 10 meters. It can be observed in marine zones such as the neritic zone, the area of the ocean extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Trididemnum cerebriforme belongs to the Class: Ascidiacea, Order: Aplousobranchia, and Family: Didemnidae. This places it within the larger group of tunicates, which are marine invertebrates that possess a tough, leathery outer covering called a tunic.
Feeding
Trididemnum cerebriforme is a filter feeder. It obtains its nourishment by drawing in water through its incurrent siphon and filtering out microscopic organisms such as phytoplankton and zooplankton. The food particles are then trapped in a mucous net and transported to the digestive system for processing.
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