Common name: Giant pink ascidian

General information

The Giant Tunicate, Herdmania momus, is a solitary tunicate species that is quite fascinating due to its size and appearance. Tunicates, also known as sea squirts, are sessile marine invertebrates that filter feed by drawing water through their siphons. Herdmania momus is known for its large, barrel-shaped body and can be quite colorful, with hues ranging from red to purple.

Care

Giant Tunicates are filter feeders and require a mature aquarium with stable water conditions and a constant supply of fine particulate organic matter to thrive. They are not recommended for beginners due to their specific feeding requirements. A strong current is also necessary to facilitate their feeding process.

Reproduction

Like many tunicates, Herdmania momus is a hermaphrodite and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the aquarium, sexual reproduction is less common, but asexual reproduction through budding can occur, leading to the formation of new individuals that remain attached to the parent organism.

Symbiosis

While not known for engaging in symbiotic relationships as complex as those of clownfish and anemones, tunicates like Herdmania momus do play a role in the ecosystem by filtering water and potentially providing a substrate for other marine organisms.

Habitat

Herdmania momus is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, attached to hard substrates in areas with strong water movement. They are often seen on reef slopes and can be found at various depths, usually below the low tide mark.