Speckled Sea Squirt

Clavelina oblonga

Speckled Sea Squirt, known scientifically as Clavelina oblonga, is a small, sessile marine organism that typically reaches a maximum length of 2.0 cm. This species can be identified by its distinctive speckled appearance, which helps differentiate it from other similar tunicates. Its body is usually elongated and adheres to various substrates in its environment, making it a common sight in tropical waters. The Speckled Sea Squirt is often found in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly around Europe, inhabiting depths ranging from 0 to 38 meters, with most occurrences recorded shallower than 40 meters. As a filter feeder, the Speckled Sea Squirt consumes plankton and organic matter from the water column. It plays a role in the marine ecosystem by filtering water and contributing to nutrient cycling. This species is hermaphroditic, meaning individuals possess both male and female reproductive organs. Reproduction typically involves cross- and self-fertilization, with eggs developing into lecithotrophic larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into adult forms. Encounters with the Speckled Sea Squirt during dives are usually characterized by its colonial nature, as they often cluster together on surfaces like rocks or coral. Divers may observe these organisms in their natural habitat, adding to the biodiversity of the underwater landscape. The conservation status of Clavelina oblonga is currently not evaluated, indicating that there is insufficient data to assess its population trends or threats.