Dendrodoris grandiflora, commonly known as the Dendrodoris grandiflora, is a species of sea slug belonging to the family Dendrodorididae. It is a striking and colorful nudibranch, easily recognizable by its vibrant coloration and unique body structure.
Description & Characteristics
The Dendrodoris grandiflora is a relatively large nudibranch, reaching a maximum size of approximately 10 centimeters in length. Its body is typically a vibrant yellow or orange, often with a pattern of dark brown or black spots or blotches. The mantle, or the fleshy covering of the body, is smooth and slightly raised, giving it a somewhat rounded appearance. The rhinophores, which are the sensory organs on the head, are short and club-shaped, while the oral tentacles are long and slender.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Dendrodoris grandiflora is a common sight in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean. It is often found in shallow, rocky reefs and tide pools, as well as in seagrass beds and mangrove forests. This nudibranch is generally found at depths ranging from a few meters to around 20 meters, primarily in the intertidal zone and the subtidal zone.
Taxonomy
The species Dendrodoris grandiflora belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Dendrodorididae. This classification highlights its relationship to other sea slugs and its distinct characteristics within the Nudibranchia order.
Feeding
The Dendrodoris grandiflora is a food specialist, relying on a specific diet of sponges. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with teeth, to scrape the sponge tissue from its substrate. This unique feeding preference makes it an important part of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the balance and diversity of sponge populations.
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