Giant Sea Tulip

Pyura spinifera

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

Sea Tulips are ascidians (sea squirts), which are an evolutionary link between invertebrates and vertebrates. They are sessile (unable to move around) and wait for the currents to bring food to them. Growing from the rocks on a long stalk with a bulbous structure on the end that is covered in lumps and bumps and can be found in a variety of colours stemming from an encrusting sponge (Halisarca australiensis) that covers their surface.

Size

Length up to 32 cm

Habitat

Coastal waters to a depth of 80m

Distribution

Eastern Australia

Gallery

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Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (1)

The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Giant Sea Tulip
Scientific name: Pyura spinifera (Quoy & Gaimard, 1834)
Family: Pyuridae
Category: Sea Life › Other
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Information Website

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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.