Geometric encrusting tunicates
Botryllus spp.
Description:
The colonies are incrusting, irregular in outline. The zooids are embedded in a common tunic and cluster in circular patterns around the central outflow openings. The color is variable. The colony is generally dark, but the zooids may be purple, purplish brown, or blackish with the area surrounding the openings being white, pale green or golden. Some colonies may be bright orange.
Habitat:
Colonies are found on the underside of rocks, on corals, gorgonians and turtle grass blades.
Remarks:
Positive identification requires microscopic examination of the internal body parts. The zooids are not divided into distinct regions as thorax, abdomen or post-abdomen. The stomach is barrel-shaped and the pyloric caecum long and curved. There is a single ovary on each side.