Common name: Urn Ascidian

General information

Didemnum molle, commonly known as Soft Coral or Green Encrusting Coral, is a species of colonial tunicate found in tropical reefs. It is characterized by its velvety appearance and can vary in color from green to yellowish-green. This species is not a coral but a tunicate, which is more closely related to vertebrates than to cnidarians like true corals.

Care

Didemnum molle is relatively easy to maintain in a reef aquarium, provided it has moderate lighting and water flow. It is not photosynthetic and relies on filter feeding to obtain nutrients. Hobbyists should ensure that the water quality is high, with regular feeding of phytoplankton or fine particulate organic foods.

Reproduction

This species reproduces both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, it can spread over surfaces by budding, which is a form of asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, but this is less commonly observed in the home aquarium.

Symbiosis

Didemnum molle does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships like those seen in clownfish and anemones. However, its presence can provide a habitat for small invertebrates and microfauna.

Habitat

In the wild, Didemnum molle is typically found in shallow waters of tropical reefs, often on the underside of ledges or in shaded areas to avoid intense light. It is widespread in the Indo-Pacific region.