Botrylloides violaceus (an orange sheath tunicate) Tunicates Exotic
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Common name: an orange sheath tunicate
Identification: Colonial. Thin, rubbery crust. Usually orange, but variable. Individuals arranged in twisting rows, more than 1/16" (2mm) long, 1/64" (0.5mm) wide (Meinkoth 1981).
Size: 1/8
Native Range: Eastern Asia
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 Alaska |
 Hawaii |
 Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands |
 Guam Saipan |
Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps
Nonindigenous Occurrences:
Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Botrylloides violaceus are found here.
Table last updated 12/5/2025
† Populations may not be currently present.
Ecology: Found on rocks, pilings, floats, and other substrates in bays and harbors; near low-tide line and below (Meinkoth 1981).
Means of Introduction: Shipping.
Status: Established.
Author:
Fuller, P.
Revision Date: 7/21/2025
Citation Information:
Fuller, P., 2025, Botrylloides violaceus Oka, 1927: U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?speciesID=2418, Revision Date: 7/21/2025, Access Date: 12/5/2025
This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.