Higher classification Microcosmus | Subphylum Tunicata Genus Microcosmus Phylum Chordata Rank Species | |
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Similar Microcosmus, Halocynthia papillosa, Pyuridae, Stolidobranchia, Halocynthia | ||
Microcosmus sabatieri is a species of tunicates (sea squirts). The species has a rocky-shape appearance. It is mainly found in the Mediterranean Sea.
Contents
It is used as food in parts of Europe, such as France and Italy, where it is known as a sea violet or sea fig.
Use
All species of Microcosmus are edible, but it is mainly M. sabatieri which is marketed. In the Mediterranean, it is eaten raw, often with an acidic condiment such as lemon juice or vinegar with shallots. It has a strong iodine taste which not all appreciate.
Synonyms
Plants of the family Aizoaceae, the genus Carpobrotus, are also known as 'sea fig' in the Mediterranean.
Europe
Fishmongers in the Mediterranean also use the following names:
References
Microcosmus sabatieri Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA