Cnemidocarpa mollispina
Local name: ankarsjöpung
Overview
Cnemidocarpa mollispina, commonly known as ankarsjöpung, is a solitary sea squirt (tunicate) characterized by its soft, translucent body covered in small, flexible spines that give it a distinctive fuzzy appearance. This filter-feeding marine invertebrate plays a crucial role in benthic ecosystems by processing large volumes of seawater and serving as both predator of planktonic organisms and prey for various fish and crustaceans.
Cnemidocarpa mollispina faces significant threats from coastal development and marine pollution in its shallow water habitats. Climate change-induced ocean warming and acidification pose additional risks to this tunicate species, while physical disturbance from fishing activities and boat anchoring can damage the seafloor communities where it resides.
Habitat
This tunicate species inhabits shallow marine waters, typically found attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, and artificial structures in coastal environments. It occurs in subtidal zones where it filters nutrients from the water column as part of benthic communities.
Other threatened species in Styelidae
Threatened in Norway
Frequently asked questions
Why is ankarsjöpung classified as Vulnerable?
Where does ankarsjöpung live?
What are the main threats to ankarsjöpung?
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