Diazona

Diazona is a genus of colonial tunicates in the family Diazonidae. They are commonly called “sea squirts” or “tunicates” and are found in marine environments worldwide. These colonial animals are characterized by their unique, often brightly colored, branching structures composed of individual zooids (small, individual organisms) that function together as a colony. They are important members of benthic ecosystems, contributing to the overall health and diversity of marine habitats.

Tunicate – Diazona formosa

Frail Diazona – Diazona tenera

Characteristics

Diazona species exhibit a range of characteristics that define the genus. Key features include:

  • Colonial Structure: The zooids are interconnected in a branched or tree-like colony, with each zooid contributing to the overall functionality of the colony.
  • Tunic: The body of the zooid is covered by a tough, leathery outer covering called a tunic, which provides structural support and protection.
  • Siphons: Each zooid has two siphons - an inhalant siphon for drawing in water and an exhalant siphon for expelling water after filtering food.
  • Filter Feeding: Diazona species are filter feeders, capturing microscopic food particles from the surrounding water using a complex system of gill slits within their pharynx.
  • Reproduction: Diazona species reproduce sexually, releasing sperm and eggs into the water for fertilization. They can also reproduce asexually through budding, creating new zooids within the colony.

Environments

Diazona species are typically found in shallow, coastal waters, often attached to rocks, piers, or other hard substrates. They thrive in a variety of environments, including:

  • Intertidal Zones: They are frequently encountered in areas exposed to fluctuating tidal conditions.
  • Subtidal Zones: Diazona species can also be found in deeper waters, down to several hundred meters below the surface.
  • Estuaries: These environments often provide suitable conditions for Diazona colonies, with a mix of freshwater and saltwater.

References

For further information and resources on Diazona, please refer to the following sources: