Crimora lutea, also known as the “Golden Crimora,” is a species of sea slug, a marine gastropod mollusc without a shell, belonging to the family Polyceridae. These brightly colored nudibranchs are known for their captivating appearance and specialized feeding habits.
Description & Characteristics
Crimora lutea exhibits a distinct, elongated body shape with a characteristic bright yellow coloration. It can reach a maximum size of about 20 millimeters. The dorsal surface, or back, of the slug features a prominent orange-red line running down the center, with numerous white spots scattered along its length. This striking pattern distinguishes it from other nudibranchs in its habitat.
Habitat and Occurrence
Crimora lutea is typically found in shallow intertidal zones, often clinging to rocks and algae. It can be observed at depths ranging from the low tide line to about 10 meters. This nudibranch is primarily found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the coasts of the British Isles, France, Spain, and Portugal. It prefers areas with moderate wave action and a good supply of its preferred food source. The species is considered a common inhabitant of the infralittoral zone, the marine environment extending from the lowest low tide mark down to about 20 meters depth.
Taxonomy
Crimora lutea belongs to the Class Gastropoda, which includes a diverse group of mollusks with a single, usually spiraled shell. It is further classified within the Order Nudibranchia, a group known for their absence of a shell, and the Family Polyceridae, a family characterized by their flattened body shape and often brightly colored external features.
Feeding
Crimora lutea is a highly specialized feeder, exclusively relying on bryozoans (sea mats) as its food source. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and ingest the bryozoans. Its diet consists of various species of bryozoans, making it an important link in the marine food web.
Image References