Bryozoans

kelp lace bryozoan

Scientific name: Membranipora membranacea

Family: Membraniporidae

Phylum: Bryozoa

Typical size: Can be larger than 7.6 centimeters in diameter

Depth range: Up to 180 meters 

Description: Typical color is white. The animal forms flat colonies and each organism is rectangular in shape.

Habitat and behavior: Commonly found on kelp fronds, floats and rocks. The colonies form the center, budding outward from the oldest portion. Sometimes the cryptic nudibranch can be found living on this organism.

smooth leather bryozoan

Scientific name: Alcyonidium pedunculatum

Family: Alcyonidiidae

Phylum: Bryozoa

Typical size: Stems up to 30 centimeters long

Depth range: Subtidal zone

Description: Leathery in texture and yellowish-tan in color. The organism forms colonies that take the shape of flattened branches protruding from the bottom. 

Habitat and behavior: Commonly found on rocks and shells.

White tuft Bryozoan

Scientific name: Crisia occidentalis 

Family: Crisiidae

Phylum: Bryozoa 

Typical size: About 3 centimeters tall 

Depth range: Up to 20 meters

Description: They have branching colonies that are curved slightly inwards and are white or light tan. 

Habitat and behavior: They attach to rock or other solid surfaces.