Pyrosomes are a group of colonial pelagic tunicates (marine invertebrate organisms). Each colony is composed of thousands of individual animals linked to form a tube or cylindrical shape. Though they are under-researched and often overlooked, existing evidence demonstrates that pyrosomes may play a significant role in marine ecosystems. They have the potential to restructure energy flows through ocean food webs by grazing on photosynthetic plankton. Pyrosomes may also contribute to the transport of carbon to the depths of the ocean, either through their vertical migrations, fecal pellet production, or the sinking of their carcasses as they die off (jelly-falls).  Large swarms of pyrosome colonies may be capable of disrupting energy flows and existing food-web interactions in oceanic ecosystems.

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Our research focuses on the feeding relationship between pyrosomes and their microbial prey. Through this project, we will improve understanding of the predatory impact of pyrosomes and other planktonic grazers on ocean food-web dynamics and biogeochemical cycling. Our research will provide more information on the ecological and trophic roles of pyrosomes in marine food-webs and ecosystems.

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Photo Attribution: Kelly Sutherland