Diversity and first record of Tunicates (Ascidians) from Gujarat coast, India

The present study reports 21 species of tunicates belonging to six families from the intertidal zone of Okha coast, Gujarat, India. Tunicates were distributed in small to moderate sized colonies up to 10 cm in various microhabitats and niches like underneath rocks, co-exist with sponges and algal studded rock surfaces of the intertidal zone. Single solitary species Herdmania momus were reported underneath boulders and within algal beds. The studied intertidal zone is located at the southern fringe of the Gulf of Kutch which is known for its diverse intertidal coral reefs and possibly this is reason for rich diversity of tunicates in this area than any other coast of Gujarat. This study is the first to document the occurrence of the ascidian species from this coast and provides a baseline of tunicates fauna of Gujarat coast.