Ciona

Ciona, also known as sea squirt, is a small marine animal related to vertebrates. It has a soft, transparent body with two siphons (tubes) that it uses to intake water, filter feeding on tiny plankton and particles. Ciona lives attached to rocks or other surfaces in the ocean. Despite its simple appearance, it is significant in scientific research because it shares basic genetic traits with humans, helping us understand development and evolution. Its straightforward body plan and rapid life cycle make it a valuable model for studying biology and genetics.