Pyura chilensis

Description

It is a sea animal, commonly called the tunica rock or "lick", that appears to be a mass of organs inside a rock. They often live in dense aggregations of population in the intertidal and subtidal coast of Chile and Peru. Similar in appearance to a marine rock structure, it eats by sucking in water rich in organic matter and filtering out microorganisms. It is characterized by a strong flavor given by high iodine content, but the taste really corresponds to the metal called vanadium that is secreted from its blood. They have the basic characteristics of all chordates, such as the dorsal cord and pharynx perforated. Its born male, becomes hermaphroditic at puberty, and reproduces by tossing clouds of sperm and eggs into the surrounding water. If it is alone, it will self procreate. In the Chilean coast Pyure banks are heavily fished in, however so far they have not seen an effect of extinction, likely due to their high growth rates, however have become increasingly hard to catch in bulk over the years. The Pyure is, however, one of the main food subsistence of other local aquatic species such as the madman (concholepas concholepas), whose reproduction has threatened and severely restricted its growth more than two decades.

Gastronomy

The meat of this shellfish, which is a strong flavor and very tasty, can be prepared raw or cooked. It is usually cut into small pieces adding chopped onion, cilantro and lemon. It’s cooked, chopped and boiled, serving as part of many dishes, highlighting the "rice with chopped Pyure.”. It can also be fried to be eaten on a piece of bread or as a complement to many dishes.

Extraction

Many locals put on their wet suit and goggles to swim the shores searching for this delicacy, Some may even travel out to sea, however aware of the danger of Chilean waters (Pacific Ocean)

For packaging, for the fish market, the fish is typically cut with a carpenters saw into slices and when ready to eat, Chileans use their fingers to break away the hard shell and scoop out the insides.