Pycnoclavella
Pycnoclavella is a genus of colonial tunicates in the family Clavelinidae. The genus is widespread in shallow waters, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, and includes several species known for their distinctive appearances and ecological roles.
Common Names
Common names for species within this genus vary depending on location and local usage. However, they are often referred to as "sea squirts" or "colonial ascidians" due to their characteristic sac-like appearance and colonial growth habits.
Characteristics
Pycnoclavella species are characterized by:
- Colonial growth: They form colonies of numerous individual zooids, each with its own body cavity and feeding apparatus.
- Sac-like zooids: Each zooid has a distinctive sac-like body, typically attached to a common basal stalk or stolon.
- Siphons: Zooids have two siphons, an inhalant siphon for drawing water into the body and an exhalant siphon for expelling filtered water.
- Tunic: The body is covered by a tough, transparent tunic made of cellulose-like material.
- Color: Colors range from translucent white to pale yellow, orange, or red.
Environment
Pycnoclavella species typically inhabit shallow coastal waters, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows. They prefer environments with moderate currents and ample food sources.
References
For further information on Pycnoclavella, consult these reliable sources: