Acanthodoris atrogriseata is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Onchidorididae. It is known for its distinct coloration and its presence in specific marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
Acanthodoris atrogriseata is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of about 15 millimeters in length. Its body is characterized by a dark grayish-brown to black coloration, often with a tinge of green. This coloration serves as camouflage against the rocky substrates it inhabits.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acanthodoris atrogriseata is a common species found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Its distribution extends from Alaska to California, including the coasts of British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. The species is typically found on rocky shores, often residing in areas with abundant algae and seaweed, which provide both food and shelter. Acanthodoris atrogriseata is commonly observed in the infralittoral zone, which is the part of the marine environment that lies below the lowest low tide mark. It is also found in the sublittoral zone, the part of the seabed that extends from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Acanthodoris atrogriseata belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Onchidorididae. This classification places it within a group of marine gastropods that lack a shell and possess a distinctive body form characterized by a mantle and cerata, which are finger-like projections.
Feeding
Acanthodoris atrogriseata is a carnivorous species that feeds primarily on sponges. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape the sponge tissue, extracting nutrients from its prey. The species has been observed to feed on a variety of sponge species, including those belonging to the genera Halichondria, Mycale, and Cliona. This dietary preference plays a crucial role in the ecological interactions within the marine environment.
Image References