Clavelinidae
Clavelinidae is a family of colonial tunicates in the order Aplousobranchia. Clavelinids are commonly known as “sea squirts” or “sea tulips.” They are found in all oceans of the world, but are most diverse in tropical and subtropical waters. Clavelinids are characterized by their small, translucent bodies, which are often brightly colored. They are filter feeders, and their bodies are covered in a thin layer of mucus that traps food particles.
Characteristics
Clavelinids are colonial tunicates, meaning that they live in groups of individuals called zooids. Each zooid is a small, sac-like organism with a single opening, called a siphonal opening, that acts as both a mouth and an anus. The zooids are typically attached to a common base, called a stolon, and are connected to each other by a network of blood vessels and nerves. Clavelinids can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. They have a simple body plan, consisting of a tunic, a mantle, and a visceral mass. The tunic is a tough, leathery outer layer that provides support and protection. The mantle is a muscular layer beneath the tunic that helps the zooid to contract and move. The visceral mass contains the organs of the zooid, including the digestive system, the circulatory system, and the reproductive organs.
Environments
Clavelinids are found in a wide range of marine environments, including rocky shores, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. They are often found in shallow water, but some species can live in deep water. Clavelinids are typically found in areas with moderate to high currents. Clavelinids are important members of the marine ecosystem, as they filter large amounts of water, removing phytoplankton and other small organisms. They are also a food source for a variety of marine animals, including fish, invertebrates, and seabirds.