Description: This solitary ascidian is irregular in shape, and lives in crevices or between stable boulders, where its body conforms to the space available. The test is thin and cartilaginous and the animal is usually green in colour. The siphons are placed far apart on the body but are capable of great extension. They are each marked with small red spots, eight around the oral siphon and six around the atrial. 50mm long x 20mm diameter.

Habitat: Commonly found on stable boulder slopes, beneath or between boulders, or in rock crevices. The test is usually firmly attached, and tears easily if the boulders are lifted.

Ecology: A long-lived species.

Distribution: Widespread around the British Isles.

Similar Species: Ascidia mentula can be found beneath boulders, but can be recognised by its different siphons and the fact that it is only attached on one side of the test.

Key Identification Features:

• Green coloration of blood pigment.
• Tough test, usually torn on inspection.
• Small red spots around siphons.

Distribution Map from NBN: Ascidia conchilega at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Ascidia conchilega at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

WoRMS: Ascidia conchilega at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Ascidia conchilega Müller, 1776. AphiaID: 103702.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Chordata; Tunicata; Ascidiacea; Phlebobranchia; Ascidiidae; Ascidia