Green Ringed Ascidian

Appearance

1 cm. Their transparent body has a green or blue tone, with dark lines around the large vent-hole (siphon).

Distribution

Western Central Pacific.

Behavior

Sessile. Forms large colonies

Habitat

Found on coral debris, sea grass, reef walls and overhangs exposed to current. Depth range: 0-18 m.

Reproduction

Members of the class Ascidiacea are hermaphroditic; both cross- and self-fertilization is typical. Life cycle: Eggs develop into lecithotrophic larva before metamorphosing into benthic adults.

Food

Filter-feeder.

Predators

Nudibranchs.