Biology:Iridescent nudibranch

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Short description: Species of gastropod

Iridescent nudibranch
Notobryon wardi.jpg
Scientific classification edit
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Gastropoda
Subclass: Heterobranchia
Order: Nudibranchia
Suborder: Cladobranchia
Family: Scyllaeidae
Genus: Notobryon
Species:
N. wardi
Binomial name
Notobryon wardi
Odhner, 1936

The iridescent nudibranch (Notobryon wardi) is a species of scyllid nudibranch, and is found in South Africa. It is a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Scyllaeidae.[1]

Distribution

This species is found around the South African coast from Elands Bay to Jeffreys Bay. It is usually found inter-tidally but has been found to 20 m.[2]

Description

The iridescent nudibranch is a medium-sized (up to 50 mm) smooth-bodied nudibranch. The body is reddish-brown with iridescent blue-green spots on its sides and back. The smooth rhinophores are surrounded by cup-like sheaths. Two sets of wispy gills are flanked by flattened lobes extending from the body.[3]

Ecology

The iridescent nudibranch feeds on hydroids. It can swim when disturbed using lateral movements of its body.

References

  1. Branch, G.M., Branch, M.L, Griffiths, C.L. and Beckley, L.E. 2010. Two Oceans: a guide to the marine life of southern Africa ISBN:978-1-77007-772-0
  2. Gosliner, T.M. 1987. Nudibranchs of Southern Africa ISBN:0-930118-13-8
  3. Zsilavecz, G. 2007. Nudibranchs of the Cape Peninsula and False Bay. ISBN:0-620-38054-3

External links

Wikidata ☰ Q3202459 entry