Light bulb ascidian

directions_boat This is an invasive or introduced species.

This spectacular colonial ascidian is a global pest species native to Europe, and likely introduced into Australia by shipping. It is transparent in colour, with bright white rings around both siphons and the pharynx, as well as white lines between the siphons and along the endostyle. Groups of zooids are joined by very short transparent stalks. In Australia, this species is unmistakable and often dominates the artificial structures or rocky coast where it is found.