1. In situ - Tunicate is on right side of picture. Other tunicate pictured is Stomozoa roseola. (Danny Gleason)
2. Out of water (Danny Gleason)
Size
Colony height: 2.5-5cm (1-2") Colony width: 4-12.5cm (2-5")
Recognition Characters
Meandering compound tunicate, forming dome-shaped mounds. Zooid located inside large circular chambers underneath tunic. Tunic or test material very thin between chambers. Tunic material is thin, rigid, and tough.
Color
Deep red or orangish red
Habitat & Depth
Attach to a variety of bottoms including rocks and ledges. To 50m.
Distribution at GRNMS
Rare at GRNMS but more common on deep reefs and ledges further offshore.
Geographic Range
Georgia, both coasts of Florida
Behavior & Notes
The dome-shaped growth form of this tunicate creates cavities on the underside of colonies. The commensal crab, Dromidia antillensis, has been found inhabiting the cavities of this tunicate.
Synonyms