Halocynthia aurantium

Description

Halocynthia aurantium, or sea peaches, are a species in the order Stolidobranchia, making them a sub-classification of tunicates. Sea peaches are commonly found in the northern Pacific ocean, ranging from the Arctic Sea south to Puget Sound, and most common in the Bering Sea at a depth of 40 to 100 metres. The sea peach is typically barrel shaped, growing to a height of 18 centimetres, and its body is attached directly to the substrate. It is usually red or orange with a smooth or wrinkled tunic. There are two siphons at the top. The sea peach is preyed upon by crabs and sea stars.