Bryozoa
Zoobotryon verticillatum
(Sauerkraut Bryozoan)
Size
Colonies can reach 30cm (12"). Zooids measure approximately 0.4 – 0.6 mm in height.
Recognition Characters
Colonies are transparent, and stolons are dichotomously or trichotomously branching. Zooids are sac-like and arranged along 2 sides in rows. The lophophore has a diameter of approximately 0.320 mm, and bears 8 tentacles. A large gizzard is present. Young colonies have transparent stolons. Calcium carbonate is absent in exoskeletons of this species.
Color
Transparent
Habitat & Depth
Estuarine tidal creeks and harbors. Attach to seagrasses, drift algae, oyster reef, dock, pilings, breakwaters, and man-made debris.
Distribution at GRNMS
Rare.
Geographic Range
North Carolina south through Florida and the Caribbean. Gulf of Mexico and Bermuda
Behavior & Notes
Synonyms
Humann 1992A, Maturo 1957