Sea-mat

Sea-mat (Flustra), a very common genus of Polyzoa (q.v.), various species of which are among the commonest objects in the wrack of the seashore. The colonies are somewhat seaweed-like, but all over the flat leaf-like growth may be seen the minute chambers in which the individuals lived. The texture is horny, whence another common name—hornwrack. Those found on shore are usually dead, having been torn from their natural moorings on rocks, seaweed, or marine animals. Fresh specimens have a characteristic musky odour.