Summary
Physical Description
Ecology
Life History & Behaviour
Reproduction and Development
Anatomy & Physiology
The Tunic
Musculature
Respiratory and Circulatory Systems
Digestive System, Nutrition and Excretion
Nervous System
Evolution & Systematics
Biogeographic Distribution
Conservation & Threats
Microplastic Study
References and Links
Glossary
References | Ecology
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North Beach, Heron Island. Reef crest from which E. diaphanis were collected.
Image from SEPM STRATA Society for Sedimentary Geology©
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E. diaphanis are found on the underside of rock and corals, forming cryptic communities. These communities are highly diverse and with limited space, it is assumed that E. diaphanis is competing with many other sedentary organisms for space. They increase the surface area of the rock and so provide a greater surface area for other organisms to attach. The stolons have some epiphytic growth (Gosliner et al.,1996), during my study it was noted that a small octocoral was growing on the stolon of a zooid. It is also possible that, like other ascidians, E. diaphanis forms associations with other animals.
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