The Ascidians of Australia. III. Aplousobranchiata Lahille: Didemnidae Giard

Abstract

The main work consists of a systematic review of Indo-Pacific species of Didemnidae and their relationships, with comprehensive keys to their identification and distribution. Descriptions of 34 species taken from Australian waters are given; of these, eight species are new to science, and include a new genus containing two species. Larvae are available and described for most species for the first time.

There is an introductory discussion on the phylogeny of aplousobranch families in relation to Didemnidae, and on the genera comprising the family, especially in relation to common cloacal systems and larvae.

A small section is devoted to the geographical distribution of the species around the Australian coast.