Rough Sea Squirt

Styela canopus

Rough Sea Squirt is a solitary ascidian that typically reaches a maximum length of about 2.0 cm. This small marine invertebrate is often found in tropical regions, inhabiting a variety of environments including mangrove areas, coral reefs, and occasionally piers or pilings in harbor settings. It thrives in brackish waters and can be located at depths ranging from 1 to 180 meters, although most occurrences are shallower than 60 meters. Its cosmopolitan distribution spans from 54°N to 38°S and from 180°W to 180°E, making it a common sight in many coastal waters worldwide. As a filter-feeder, Rough Sea Squirt consumes small particles from the water column, including plankton and organic matter. It is hermaphroditic, capable of both cross- and self-fertilization, and its life cycle involves eggs developing into lecithotrophic larvae that eventually metamorphose into benthic adults. Encounters with this species while diving can be quite interesting, as they often blend into their surroundings, making them somewhat cryptic. Divers should look closely at mangrove roots and coral structures to spot these small creatures. Currently, the conservation status of Rough Sea Squirt has not been evaluated by the IUCN, and there are no specific threats noted. However, its adaptability to various habitats suggests it may be resilient to some environmental changes.