Globular Encrusting Tunicate

Globular Encrusting Tunicate, ID Not Sure

ID Not Sure: The identification is a best guess but lacks enough confidence or supporting evidence.

Name:	Globular Encrusting Tunicate
Scientific Name:	Diplosoma glandulosum
Family:	Tunicates
Taxonomic:	Didemnidae
ID Group:	Sponges, Bryozoans, Tunicates
Size:	up to 4 in.
Depth Range:	On the reef (10 – 60 ft.)
Sightings:	Seen sometimes

The Globular Encrusting Tunicate forms a thin, soft layer composed of many tiny individual tunicates enclosed in a rounded sheet. The outer surface may be yellow, orange, green, brown, or gray, and the small openings for water intake often have pale edges.

This Tunicate grows as a thin covering on hard surfaces. It remains fixed in place and filters surrounding water for food. Water exits through larger, unevenly spaced holes that lead into an expanded inner chamber.