Red-throated Ascidian
Scientific name: Herdmania momus
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Red-throated Ascidian, Herdmania momus
Image: Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparenc
© Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparencies
© Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparencies
Fast Facts
-
Classification
- Genus
- Herdmania
- Species
- momus
- Family
- Pyuridae
- Suborder
- Stolidobranchia
- Class
- Ascidiacea
- Subphylum
- Tunicata
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Kingdom
- Animalia
-
- Size Range
- 20 cm
Introduction
The Red-throated Ascidian is a solitary species common in Sydney's coastal waters.
Identification
The Red-throated Ascidian has a thick, white or semi-transparent outer covering, and two prominent, red-rimmed siphons that it uses to filter plankton from the water. Usually the animal is so heavily covered in algae that only the red rims of its siphons can be seen.
Habitat
The Red-throated Ascidian is found on rocky reefs to a depth of 3 m - 50 m.
Distribution
Feeding and diet
Plankton.
