Polyclinidae

Polyclinidae is a family of colonial tunicates, commonly known as compound ascidians or social sea squirts. They are filter feeders that play an important role in marine ecosystems by consuming phytoplankton and other microscopic organisms. These colonial animals are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea environments.

Synoicum sacculum

Synoicum occidentalis

Synoicum turgens

Sea-strawberry, Sea Squirt – Aplidium elegans

Aplidium clivosum

Aplidium Turbinatum – Aplidium turbinatum

California Sea Pork – Aplidium californicum

Aplidium benhami

Aplidium phortax

Rosette Sea Squirt – Aplidium flavolineatum

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Characteristics

Polyclinids are characterized by their colonial nature, with individuals known as zooids living in close association within a shared gelatinous tunic. Zooids are typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length. Each zooid possesses a siphon for inhaling water, another for exhaling water, and a digestive system for filtering food particles. They often exhibit a distinctive pattern of color and shape, which varies depending on the species.

Environments

Polyclinids are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:

  • Intertidal zones
  • Subtidal zones
  • Coral reefs
  • Deep-sea environments

They prefer hard substrates, such as rocks, shells, and seaweeds, where they can attach themselves. Some species are also found on soft sediments, where they can create burrows or form loose colonies.

References

For further information on Polyclinidae, please refer to the following reliable references: