Styelidae
Styelidae is a family of tunicates belonging to the order Stolidobranchia. These marine animals are commonly known as sea squirts or ascidians, and are found in a variety of habitats, predominantly in shallow coastal waters. They are characterized by their simple, sac-like body structure, with two siphons for water intake and expulsion.
Characteristics
Styelidae members typically exhibit a solitary lifestyle, although some species may form colonies. Their body is enclosed in a tough, leathery tunic, which may be smooth or textured. They possess two siphons, an incurrent siphon for filtering water and an excurrent siphon for expelling waste. The interior of the body houses a large pharynx with numerous gill slits for respiration and feeding.
A notable feature of Styelidae is their ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of eggs and sperm into the water, leading to fertilization and larval development. Asexual reproduction, often seen in colonial species, occurs through budding, where new individuals arise from the parent organism.
Environment
Styelidae are widely distributed in marine environments worldwide. They are found in a range of habitats, including rocky shores, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. These creatures thrive in both intertidal and subtidal zones, with some species adapted to survive in deeper, colder waters.
The availability of food, primarily phytoplankton and other small organisms, influences their distribution and abundance. They often attach themselves to hard surfaces such as rocks, piers, and boat hulls.
References
For further information on Styelidae, refer to the following reliable resources: