The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis is a captivating species of sea slug that is recognized for its distinctive appearance and specialized feeding habits. This nudibranch, belonging to the family Polyceridae, is a fascinating example of the diverse life forms found within the marine world.
Description & Characteristics
The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis typically reaches a maximum size of approximately 25 millimeters in length. Its body is characterized by a vibrant coloration, often showcasing shades of red, orange, or yellow. Notably, its dorsal surface is dotted with numerous black eyespots, lending it its common name. These eyespots are not true eyes but rather sensory structures known as cerata, which play a role in detecting prey and providing protection.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis is a creature of the shallow coastal waters, typically inhabiting depths ranging from the intertidal zone to around 30 meters. This species can be found in a variety of marine ecosystems, including rocky reefs, kelp forests, and seagrass meadows. Its distribution extends across the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, where it thrives in temperate waters.
Taxonomy
The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis is classified within the animal kingdom. It is categorized within the phylum Mollusca, belonging to the class Gastropoda. This class encompasses a vast array of shelled and shell-less mollusks, including snails, slugs, and nudibranchs. The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis is specifically classified within the order Nudibranchia, which is a group of marine gastropods that have lost their shells during their evolutionary history. This order is further divided into families, and Crimora multidigitalis is part of the Polyceridae family, a group of nudibranchs known for their distinctive body forms and coloration.
Feeding
The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis is a specialized carnivore that primarily feeds on bryozoans, commonly known as sea mats. These tiny, colonial animals form intricate, often branching structures that adhere to hard surfaces. The Many-eyed Sea-slug – Crimora multidigitalis utilizes its radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in teeth, to scrape and consume the bryozoan colonies. Its diet is highly specific, making it a food specialist within its marine environment.
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