Trididemnum
Trididemnum is a genus of colonial tunicates, commonly known as sea squirts, belonging to the family Didemnidae. These marine invertebrates are characterized by their bright colors and unique colonial structure, which can be found in various habitats worldwide.
Characteristics
Trididemnum colonies are typically encrusting, forming thin, sheet-like structures that can cover rocks, coral, and other surfaces. They are composed of numerous zooids, individual animals that are connected by a common tunic, a tough, leathery outer covering. The zooids are small, often less than a millimeter in length, and have a distinctive barrel-shaped body. They possess two siphons, one for inhaling water and the other for expelling it, and are filter feeders, obtaining nutrients from microscopic organisms in the surrounding water.
Environments
Trididemnum species are widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters, inhabiting a variety of marine environments. They are commonly found in shallow, intertidal zones, as well as deeper reefs and seagrass meadows. Some species can tolerate a range of salinities and may even be found in estuarine habitats.
Common Names
While Trididemnum is the scientific name for this genus, it is often referred to by common names such as:
- Sea squirts
- Colonial ascidians
- Encrusting tunicates
References
For further information on Trididemnum, refer to these reliable resources: