Common name: Blue Velvet Sea Squirt

General information

The Blue Velvet Sea Squirt, Lissoclinum reginum, is a captivating tunicate that adds a touch of elegance to any reef aquarium. Tunicates, also known as sea squirts, are sessile invertebrates that filter feed by drawing water through their siphons. Lissoclinum reginum is particularly noted for its stunning blue coloration and velvety appearance, which can create a striking contrast against the various hues of corals and fish in a marine setup.

Care

Caring for Lissoclinum reginum requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They thrive in environments with moderate to strong water flow, which facilitates their filter-feeding behavior. It's important to maintain high water quality, as tunicates are sensitive to pollutants and fluctuations in water parameters. They feed on phytoplankton and dissolved organics, so supplemental feeding with phytoplankton or liquid invertebrate food may be necessary to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Lissoclinum reginum can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs. Asexually, they can bud new individuals from their body, which eventually grow into full-sized sea squirts. This can lead to the formation of small colonies over time, provided the conditions are favorable.

Habitat

Lissoclinum reginum is found in tropical and subtropical waters, often attached to hard substrates like rocks or dead coral. They are typically located in areas with good water movement, which is essential for their filter-feeding lifestyle. In the wild, they can be found at various depths, often forming part of the diverse community of organisms on a reef.