Lacy Crust Bryozoan - Membranipora membranacea

Characteristics:

The colonies form flexible white or grey net of rectangular boxes, one for each zooid (animal). Each box is typically 2x3 mm and is equipped with fine spines, giving the lacy crust bryozoan a sandpaper-like texture.

Habitat:

It is found on shallow water, encrusting kelp.

Distribution:

This is a widely distributed bryozoan, registered in the northern parts of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.