Slimy bags

Distribution:     

Found along southern Australia in subtidal areas to 20 m deep, slimy bags attaches to reef and rubble with a holdfast. Resembling a bunch of elongated balloons, they often grow in a cluster to about 15 cm high. The scientific name Gloiosaccion literally translates to ‘glue sacks’. If you find one washed up on the beach, break it open and you will find a thick slimy substance – it is thought that this substance may deter herbivores (plant-eating animals).