Reef Tunicate
| Name: | Reef Tunicate |
| Scientific Name: | Rhopalaea abdominalis |
| Family: | Tunicates |
| Taxonomic: | Diazonidae |
| ID Group: | Sponges, Bryozoans, Tunicates |
| Size: | up to 1.5 in. |
| Depth Range: | On the reef (10 – 60 ft.) |
| Sightings: | Seen sometimes |
The Reef Tunicate has a thick, rounded body with two large siphons at the top. Its color ranges from brown to lavender or deep purple. Only the upper part is usually visible.
This Tunicate is found nestled alone in narrow hidden spaces on the reef, often in coral debris and crevices, while remaining motionless. It is a filter feeder, drawing water through its siphons to strain out tiny food particles like plankton.