Virgulariidae
Virgulariidae is a family of colonial tunicates in the order Aplousobranchia. They are commonly known as “sea squirts” or “tunicates,” and are a diverse group of filter-feeding marine invertebrates.
Common Names
Members of the Virgulariidae family are commonly referred to as "sea squirts" or "tunicates." The term "virgulariid" is also used, but less frequently.
Characteristics
Virgulariidae are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies and their colonial nature. Each individual zooid (member of the colony) is typically small and encased in a tough, translucent tunic. They possess two siphons, an incurrent siphon for drawing in water and an excurrent siphon for expelling water. Virgulariids filter food particles from the water using a basket-like structure called a branchial sac. They are also known for their unique reproductive strategies, including both sexual and asexual reproduction.
Environments
Virgulariidae are found in a variety of marine environments worldwide. They are typically found attached to hard surfaces, such as rocks, corals, and seaweeds. Some species can be found in deeper waters, while others prefer shallow, coastal areas. Their abundance and distribution are influenced by factors such as water temperature, salinity, and the availability of food.