Calmella gaditana is a species of sea slug, a type of nudibranch, belonging to the family Flabellinidae. These colorful and often striking invertebrates are found in a variety of marine environments, contributing to the biodiversity of these ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Calmella gaditana is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters. Its body is characterized by its vibrant coloration, often displaying hues of orange, yellow, and red. The slug’s body is elongated and slender, with a distinct head and a tail that tapers to a point. It possesses a pair of rhinophores, or sensory tentacles, located on its head, which are used to detect food and navigate its surroundings. Calmella gaditana also features a distinctive cerata, which are finger-like projections along its back, which contribute to its distinctive appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
Calmella gaditana typically inhabits shallow coastal waters, often found among seaweed and other marine vegetation in the intertidal zone. Its distribution encompasses a range of marine zones, including the infralittoral zone, which extends from the low tide mark to a depth of approximately 20 meters, and the circalittoral zone, which encompasses depths ranging from 20 to 200 meters. This species is particularly prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, where it thrives in the diverse habitats found in this region.
Taxonomy
Calmella gaditana is scientifically classified within the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Flabellinidae. These taxonomic classifications reflect its evolutionary history and relationships to other species of sea slugs. The family Flabellinidae, which includes numerous species of nudibranchs, is characterized by its members’ slender bodies, prominent cerata, and diverse coloration patterns.
Feeding
Calmella gaditana is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on hydroids, a type of colonial invertebrate. These hydroids, which are often found growing on seaweed and other substrates, provide a rich source of nutrients for this nudibranch. Calmella gaditana utilizes its radula, a ribbon-like structure in its mouth, to scrape and consume its prey. The cerata on its back play a role in digestion, as they contain specialized cells that help process the food it consumes.
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