Home > Invertebrates > Tunicates > Didemnum molle

Created 9/28/2021

Family Didemnidae

INDO-WEST PACIFIC

Didemnum molle

 

Palau


Lewaleng, Indonesia


Central Philippines
  
   

GREEN BARREL SEA SQUIRT

Abundant on dead coral and coralline algae in shallow water.  Pores are tiny and crowded, not widely spaced as in the look-alike Atriolum robustum.  White calcareous spicules provide rigidity and color to the brown tunic, easily torn.  The green color is due to symbiotic bluegreen algae, and internal canals are visible.  Exudes thick sticky mucus.  Attains 4 inches.  East Africa to Okinawa, the Caroline Islands, and New Caledonia.