Atagema notacristata is a species of sea slug, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Discodorididae. It is a relatively common nudibranch found in the Indo-Pacific region.
Description & Characteristics
Atagema notacristata is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of 30 mm in length. It possesses a distinctive, elongated body shape, with a flattened dorsal surface and a pointed head. The body is predominantly white in color, with a series of yellow to orange spots arranged in a row along the mantle margin. The rhinophores, which are sensory organs located on the head, are club-shaped and orange in color. The gills, which are located on the posterior end of the body, are also orange and feathery.
Habitat and Occurrence
Atagema notacristata is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. It typically inhabits shallow, coastal waters, often in areas with a high abundance of algae. Its preferred habitat includes rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and coral rubble. It is a common sight in the intertidal zone, where it can be found crawling on rocks or among seaweed.
Taxonomy
Atagema notacristata belongs to the Class Gastropoda, Order Nudibranchia, and Family Discodorididae. This family encompasses a diverse range of sea slugs, known for their bright colors and lack of a shell in adulthood. Atagema notacristata is just one of many fascinating species within this diverse group.
Feeding
Atagema notacristata is a carnivorous species that feeds primarily on sponges. They use their radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape off pieces of sponge tissue. This feeding behavior makes them an important component of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance of sponge populations.
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