Goniobranchus tennentanus, also known as the “Tennant’s chromodoris,” is a species of colorful sea slug belonging to the family Chromodorididae. These nudibranchs are characterized by their vibrant coloration and distinctive patterns, making them a popular subject for marine biologists and underwater photographers.
Description & Characteristics
Goniobranchus tennentanus exhibits a striking appearance, with a bright orange body adorned with prominent black spots scattered across its dorsum. The mantle, which is the fleshy outer covering, is relatively smooth and rounded, with a distinctive black margin. The rhinophores, or sensory organs, are club-shaped and orange in color, while the gills are prominent and feathery, extending from the posterior end of the body. These nudibranchs typically reach a maximum size of around 50 mm in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
Goniobranchus tennentanus is a common inhabitant of tropical coral reefs, typically found in the Indo-Pacific region. Their distribution spans a range of marine zones, from the intertidal zone to depths of around 30 meters. These nudibranchs prefer habitats with abundant coral growth and a diverse array of algae, which provide shelter and food sources. They can be observed in a variety of locations, including lagoons, reefs, and rocky shores.
Taxonomy
Goniobranchus tennentanus is classified within the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses a vast array of mollusks characterized by their coiled shells. These nudibranchs further belong to the Order Nudibranchia, a group known for their distinctive lack of shells and their vibrant coloration. Finally, they are categorized within the Family Chromodorididae, a family known for their smooth bodies, striking patterns, and association with coral reef ecosystems.
Feeding
Goniobranchus tennentanus is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on sponges. These nudibranchs utilize their radula, a specialized ribbon-like structure in their mouth, to scrape and ingest sponge tissue. They are selective in their diet, preferring certain species of sponges over others. It is believed that they extract toxins from the sponges they consume, which may provide them with protection from predators.
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