Cavernularia
Cavernularia is a genus of colonial tunicates in the family Pyrosomae. These bioluminescent organisms are found in the pelagic zone of the ocean, primarily in tropical and subtropical waters. Cavernularia are characterized by their cylindrical, gelatinous bodies, which can reach lengths of up to several meters. They are made up of numerous individual zooids, each with its own set of organs, that are interconnected and function as a single unit.
Common Names
Cavernularia is commonly known as "sea-pigs" or "pyrosomes".
Characteristics
Cavernularia colonies are composed of numerous small, individual zooids that are arranged in a cylindrical shape. Each zooid is surrounded by a gelatinous tunic, and the entire colony is held together by a common tunic. The zooids are interconnected and communicate with each other through a network of canals. The colonies are often brightly bioluminescent, emitting a blue-green light that can be seen for miles in the ocean.
Environment
Cavernularia are pelagic organisms, meaning they live in the open ocean and are not attached to the seafloor. They are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters, although some species have been found in more temperate regions. They are often found in large numbers, forming massive blooms that can stretch for miles. Cavernularia are filter feeders and use their internal cilia to capture small plankton and other organisms. The colonies can drift with the currents or swim weakly by contracting their tunic. Cavernularia are also known to migrate vertically in the water column, rising to the surface at night to feed and sinking deeper during the day to avoid predators.