Pleated Sea Squirt
directions_boat This is an invasive or introduced species.

Styela plicata

Styela plicata - Pleated Sea Squirt
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Size: 9 cm

Distribution: Ceduna to Cape Jervis, including northern Kangaroo Island

Habitat: Rock walls and artificial structures, including estuaries

Depth: Subtidal

Styela plicata - Pleated Sea Squirt
Styela plicata - Pleated Sea Squirt
Styela plicata - Pleated Sea Squirt
Styela plicata - Pleated Sea Squirt

This introduced solitary ascidian is cream in colour, and squat, with short siphons and a lumpy test. The siphons have four double rows of brown stripes. This species can occur in large aggregations and is tolerant of poor water quality. It is commonly found on wharves, jetty pylons and buoys, particularly in estuaries and harbours.