Clavelina detorta (Detorta stalked ascidian)

Identification

Stalked ascidian with a translucent green body, golden or orange C-shape present, golden or orange stalk. They are usually found in clusters together.

Status

Unassessed by the IUCN Red list. Found in many tropical waters but not a common species.

Habitat

They are found from the Red Sea to Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, the Solomon islands and New Caledonia. They attach to hard substrates such as rocks and boulders, in a depth range of 5-40 meters.

Reproduction

Members of the class Ascidians are hermaphroditic (both male and female simultaneously. Both cross- and self-fertilization is typical. Eggs develop into lecithotrophic larva before metamorphosing into benthic adults.

Size

Up to 3cm.

Prey / Predation

They filter plankton by pumping water through their body, filtering out food particles as it passes.

Special features

These ascidians are small and often overlooked, but well worth a closer look.