Dermatobranchus fortunatus is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, belonging to the family Arminidae. It is a small, colorful nudibranch with unique characteristics that set it apart from other species.
Description & Characteristics
Dermatobranchus fortunatus is a relatively small nudibranch, reaching a maximum size of about 15 mm in length. Its body is elongated and slender, with a distinctive orange or red coloration. The animal’s dorsal surface features numerous, small, white tubercles that give it a bumpy appearance. This species has a pair of prominent, orange rhinophores, which are sensory organs used to detect food and their environment.
Habitat and Occurrence
Dermatobranchus fortunatus primarily inhabits the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is commonly found in coral reefs, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters. These nudibranchs are frequently observed in the inner reef flat and reef slope habitats.
Taxonomy
Dermatobranchus fortunatus belongs to the Class Gastropoda, which encompasses a vast array of mollusks. It is further classified under the Order Nudibranchia, a group characterized by their lack of external shells. Within this order, it is part of the Arminidae family, which includes several other species of nudibranchs.
Feeding
Dermatobranchus fortunatus is a specialist feeder, meaning it has a very specific diet. This nudibranch primarily consumes coral polyps, making it a corallivorous species. The white tubercles on its dorsal surface are thought to play a role in helping it digest its coral diet.
Image References