With the recent low dissolved oxygen event in mid-September, much of the fish and invertebrate life died below 20 feet under the water’s surface. However, the large patches of the clear, cylindrical-shaped tunicate seem to be unaffected by the low dissolved oxygen and appear healthy and growing.
![Image](http://nwgeogirl.smugmug.com/photos/102636433-M.jpg)
The invasive tunicate is taking over large expanses of South Hood Canal and was likely introduced by imported shellfish stock. Much attention and government funding has been spent in efforts to control another invasive tunicate, Styela clava (found at Pleasant Harbor Marina on Hood Canal), but nothing has been done yet about Ciona savignyi.
Volunteer divers are about to change that.
After consulting with Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife Asst. Aquatic Nuisance Species Coordinator Pam Meacham, and UW Tunicate expert Gretchen Lambert, a team of volunteer divers was put together by Washington Scuba Alliance Board member Janna Nichols.
![:biggrin: :D](./images/smilies/biggrin.gif)
![Image](http://nwgeogirl.smugmug.com/photos/102636434-M.jpg)
More information on three invasive tunicates found in Washington can be found here:
http://www.pnwscuba.com/critterwatchers/invasive.htm
- Janna
![:) :)](./images/smilies/smile.gif)