Final answer:
When the sea squirt larval form settles, it undergoes metamorphosis and transforms into the juvenile or adult sea squirt. It attaches to a substrate, and from there, it starts to develop and grow into a mature sea squirt, capable of filter feeding and reproducing.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the sea squirt larval form settles, it undergoes metamorphosis and transforms into the juvenile or adult sea squirt. The settling process involves the attachment of the larva to a substrate, such as a rock or a dock, where it can anchor itself permanently. Once settled, the larva loses its ability to swim and begins to develop the characteristic tube-like structure of a sea squirt. It starts to filter feed by pumping water through its body and extracting microscopic food particles. The settled sea squirt will continue to grow and reproduce, contributing to the population of sea squirts in its environment.