Capellinia fustifera is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, belonging to the family Eubranchidae. These vibrant creatures are known for their striking appearance and fascinating feeding habits.
Description & Characteristics
Capellinia fustifera is a small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters. Its body is elongated and slender, with a distinct head and a tapering tail. The most notable characteristic of this species is its bright orange-red coloration, often adorned with white spots or blotches. These vivid markings provide camouflage against the colorful backgrounds of their preferred habitats. The species is also characterized by the presence of cerata, finger-like projections that extend from its back, aiding in respiration and potentially defense.
Habitat and Occurrence
Capellinia fustifera is a marine species that thrives in saltwater environments. This nudibranch is commonly found in the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, which are submerged areas of the ocean extending from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters. This species is therefore considered a part of the neritic marine zone, encompassing the waters above the continental shelf. This wide distribution makes Capellinia fustifera a familiar sight in various coastal habitats across its range.
Taxonomy
The species Capellinia fustifera is classified within the phylum Mollusca, belonging to the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses a vast array of snails, slugs, and other gastropod mollusks. Within this class, Capellinia fustifera is further categorized as belonging to the Order Nudibranchia, which consists of a diverse group of sea slugs renowned for their vibrant colors and lack of external shells. Finally, Capellinia fustifera is a member of the Family Eubranchidae, a family of nudibranchs known for their small size and diverse appearances.
Feeding
Capellinia fustifera exhibits a specialized feeding strategy, classified as a food specialist. These nudibranchs are known to exclusively feed on hydrozoa polyps, which are small, colonial animals found in various marine environments. Their diet consists primarily of hydroids and other colonial cnidarians, which they locate and consume using their specialized mouthparts. This selective feeding strategy highlights the unique adaptation and ecological role of Capellinia fustifera within its marine ecosystem.
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