Pyura
Pyura is a genus of tunicates, marine invertebrates that are commonly referred to as sea squirts. They are sessile filter feeders, meaning they attach themselves to a solid surface and filter food particles from the water. Pyura species are found in a wide range of marine environments, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and deep-sea habitats.
Common Names
Pyura species are known by various common names, including sea squirts, sea peaches, and tunicates. These names reflect their appearance, which can range from fleshy and colorful to tough and leathery.
Characteristics
Pyura species exhibit a number of distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from other tunicates:
- Sessile lifestyle: Pyura are permanently attached to a substrate, typically rocks or other hard surfaces.
- Filter feeding: They feed by filtering water through their siphons, capturing microscopic organisms and organic matter.
- Tunic: Pyura are covered by a tough, leathery outer layer called a tunic, which provides protection and support.
- Two siphons: They have two openings, or siphons, on their body. One siphon is used for inhaling water, while the other is used for expelling water after it has been filtered.
Environments
Pyura species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones: These are the areas of the shoreline that are exposed to air at low tide and submerged at high tide.
- Subtidal zones: These are areas that are permanently submerged below the low tide mark.
- Coral reefs: Pyura can be found living on coral reefs, where they contribute to the ecosystem by filtering water and providing habitat for other organisms.
- Deep-sea habitats: Some Pyura species live in deep-sea environments, where they are adapted to the harsh conditions of darkness and pressure.
References
For further information about Pyura, you can refer to the following reliable online resources: