Distribution of Ecteinascidia turbinata (Ascidiacea : Perophoridae) in mangroves of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

The ascidian Ecteinascidia turbinata synthesizes some of the most promising substances against solid-type tumors, but the only available source are th e natural populations of this tunicate, which is reared or collected in dif ferent parts of the world. A total of 33 locations were sampled in the Gulf of Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula. The tunicate was not found in Veracru z, Tabasco and Campeche but it was well established on mangrove roots in th e Yucatan peninsula where we estimated densities more or less equal to one colony and an average production of 115 g of biomass per lineal meter of ma ngrove coastline in one location (Rio Lagartos). Sustainable management app ears to be possible.