a subphylum of the animal phylum Chordata that contains the ascideans (sea squirts). Most adults are sessile and bear little resemblance to the other chordates. They are common inhabitants of coral reefs and mangrove roots Ventral view of crayfish. (Photo: Copyright LTTM 2003)

MS = A subphylum of chordates intermediate between the invertebrates and the true vertebrates. It includes the Ascidians. UI = D014561

The subphylum of chordates whose members have all four chordate characteristics as larvae. Adults are sessile or planktonic and enclosed in tunic that usually contains cellulose. Sea squirts or tunicates.

Same as Tunicata.