| Introduction Ascidians, also known as sea squirts or tunicates, are one of the many fascinating types of marine animals that live along the Washington coastline. They can be found growing on rocks walls, oyster shells, docks or any other hard substrate that is continuously submerged in water. This website was created to be a general introduction to ascidians and to document some of the common species found in Washington State. It also seeks to increase awareness of the growing problem of invasive ascidians and to provide information on reporting any sightings of these species in Washington waters. IMPORTANT: WE NEED YOUR HELP! If you are a SCUBA diver, snorkeler or have access to marina docks you can help study and eradicate invasive ascidians by reporting them. There are 3 species (Didemnum sp., Styela clava and Ciona sayvignyi) that should be reported to the state by calling 1-800-54-SOUND and 2 species (Botrylloides violaceous and Botryllus schlosseri) that should be reported to Erin Grey at egrey@uchicago.edu. For more information on identification and reporting instructions (it's easy!) please click here or on the link above. |
 Invasive compound ascidian Botrylloides violaceous (orange) growing over a tube worm |