(Tjøme - Vestfold / 11 meters / 9.27.2004)

Phylum: Chordata

Subphylum: Tunicata

Class: Ascidiacea

Order: Phlebobranchia

Family: Ascidiidae

Scientific name: Ascidia mentula

 

Norwegian: rosasjøpung

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Distribution: This sea squirt is common along the Norwegian coast, as far north as Troms. It needs solid rock to attach its body to. It can be found as deep as 150 meters.

Characteristics: The elongated body is usually 5-18 cm long, but lengths up to 30 cm have been reported. The significant size and its vivid read or pink color it is hardly overlooked. However, it sometimes appears in green or light brown coloration as well. Around the edge of the inlet siphon there are 8-12 clearly visible, white spots.

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