Common name: Green Barrel Sea Squirt

General information

The Green Barrel Sea Squirt, Eudistoma gilboviride, is a colonial tunicate found in various reef environments. Tunicates, also known as sea squirts, are sessile invertebrates that filter feed by drawing water through their siphons. This species is characterized by its vibrant green coloration, which comes from the symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae living within its tissues.

Care

In the aquarium, Eudistoma gilboviride requires stable water conditions with moderate to strong water flow to facilitate feeding. They are filter feeders, so ensuring the water is rich in suspended particulate matter or providing planktonic food is essential. They are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so maintaining good water quality is crucial.

Reproduction

As with many tunicates, Eudistoma gilboviride can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, they may propagate by budding, where new individuals form from the parent colony. Sexual reproduction involves the release of sperm and eggs into the water column, where fertilization occurs.

Symbiosis

Eudistoma gilboviride has a notable symbiotic relationship with microalgae, which gives it the distinctive green color. The algae perform photosynthesis and provide nutrients to the sea squirt, while the sea squirt offers the algae a protected environment and access to light.

Habitat

This species is typically found in shallow reef environments, often attached to hard substrates. They are distributed in tropical and subtropical waters, where they contribute to the biodiversity and complexity of reef ecosystems.