Trapania scurra, commonly known as the Jester Trapania, is a species of sea slug belonging to the family Goniodorididae. This colorful nudibranch is a captivating inhabitant of the marine world, distinguished by its distinctive markings and intriguing behaviors.
Description & Characteristics
The Jester Trapania is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of 25 mm in length. Its body is elongated and slender, with a characteristically pointed head. One of its most striking features is its vibrant coloration. The body is typically a translucent white or pale yellow, adorned with numerous black or brown spots. These spots are often arranged in irregular patterns, creating a unique and visually appealing appearance. The rhinophores, which are sensory organs located on the head, are also characteristically spotted. The gills, located on the dorsal side of the animal, are generally a bright orange or yellow, adding to its overall vividness.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Jester Trapania is a marine species found in the seawater, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. It is commonly observed in shallow water environments, often found amongst coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky outcrops. This species is often encountered in a variety of marine zones, from intertidal areas to depths of around 10 meters.
Taxonomy
Trapania scurra belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Goniodorididae. This classification highlights its evolutionary lineage as a gastropod, specifically a nudibranch, and places it within the larger family of sea slugs known as the Goniodorididae.
Feeding
The Jester Trapania is a specialist feeder, relying on a specific type of prey known as Kelchwürmer (Entroprocta). These tiny, sessile animals are often found attached to hard surfaces in marine environments. The Trapania scurra uses its radula, a chitinous ribbon studded with teeth, to scrape and ingest these Entroprocta, ensuring its dietary requirements are met.
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