Cionidae
Cionidae is a family of tunicates, commonly known as sea squirts. This group of animals are filter feeders, meaning they strain food particles from the water column. They are sessile, meaning they remain attached to a substrate and do not move freely. They are found in marine environments worldwide, typically in shallow waters, although some species can be found at depths of up to 2,000 meters. Cionidae are known for their simple body structure, consisting of an outer tunic, an inner body wall, and a single opening for both intake and expulsion of water.
Common Names
Cionidae are commonly known as sea squirts or sea potatoes. These names refer to the animal's ability to squirt water out of its body when disturbed, and its potato-like shape, respectively.
Characteristics
Members of Cionidae are characterized by a number of distinct features, including:
- A simple body structure, with a sac-like body enclosed in a tunic
- A single opening, known as a siphonal aperture, for both intake and expulsion of water
- Two branchial sacs, which are responsible for filtering food particles from the water
- A muscular mantle, which contracts to expel water and propel the animal through the water
Environments
Cionidae are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Shallow coastal waters
- Deep sea environments
They typically attach themselves to rocks, seaweeds, or other marine substrates.
References
For more detailed information on Cionidae, please refer to the following websites: