Microcosmus sabatieri

Microcosmus sabatieri is a species of tunicate, also known as a sea squirt, that is native to the Mediterranean Sea. It is commonly referred to as the sea fig or violet sea squirt. This species is part of the Microcosmus genus and the Styelidae family.

Description

The Microcosmus sabatieri is a solitary tunicate that can reach up to 15 cm in length. Its body is soft and gelatinous, with a shape that resembles a fig or a pear. The color of the sea fig ranges from violet to brown, with a smooth and shiny surface. It has two siphons, one for intake and one for outflow, which are used for feeding and respiration.

Habitat and Distribution

The Microcosmus sabatieri is found in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the western basin. It prefers rocky substrates and can be found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to 30 meters. It is often found in clusters, attached to rocks, shells, or other hard surfaces.

Diet

The diet of the Microcosmus sabatieri consists mainly of plankton. As a filter feeder, it draws in water through its intake siphon, filters out the plankton, and expels the water through its outflow siphon.

Reproduction

The Microcosmus sabatieri is a hermaphrodite, meaning it has both male and female reproductive organs. It reproduces through both sexual and asexual reproduction. In sexual reproduction, eggs and sperm are released into the water where fertilization takes place. In asexual reproduction, it can reproduce by budding, where a new individual grows from the body of the parent.

Human Use

In some parts of the Mediterranean, the Microcosmus sabatieri is harvested for food. It is considered a delicacy in certain regions of Spain and France, where it is often served raw or cooked in various dishes.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Microcosmus sabatieri is currently not evaluated by the IUCN. However, due to its specific habitat requirements and the potential impact of pollution and climate change on its populations, it may be vulnerable to future threats.

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