Cavolinia tridentata, commonly known as the “trident sea butterfly,” is a species of small, planktonic sea snail that belongs to the family Cavoliniidae. These delicate creatures are found in various parts of the world’s oceans, contributing to the biodiversity of these vast aquatic ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Cavolinia tridentata is characterized by its translucent, elongated shell, which typically measures between 10 and 25 millimeters in length. The shell exhibits a distinctive trident-shaped opening, hence its common name. Its body is soft and gelatinous, resembling a small, elongated slug. Like other pteropods, Cavolinia tridentata possesses wing-like appendages called parapodia, which it uses for swimming in a fluttering motion, resembling a butterfly.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cavolinia tridentata is a pelagic species, meaning it lives in the open ocean, typically in the epipelagic zone, which extends from the surface to a depth of about 200 meters. These sea butterflies are found in tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific oceans.
Taxonomy
Cavolinia tridentata is scientifically classified as follows: belonging to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Pteropoda, and Family: Cavoliniidae. This classification places it within the group of snails and slugs, specifically within the suborder of pteropods, which are characterized by their wing-like appendages.
Feeding
Cavolinia tridentata feeds primarily on phytoplankton, tiny single-celled algae that form the base of the marine food web. The sea butterfly uses its parapodia to filter phytoplankton from the water, contributing to the ocean’s complex ecosystem.
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