Favorinus elenalexiae is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, a shell-less marine gastropod mollusk in the family Facelinidae. It is a small, brightly colored nudibranch with a distinctive appearance.
Description & Characteristics
Favorinus elenalexiae is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of about 10 millimeters. The body is elongated and slender, with a pointed head and a tail that tapers to a point. The dorsal surface of the body is covered in numerous cerata, which are finger-like projections that serve as respiratory organs and may also contain nematocysts (stinging cells) from its prey. These cerata are usually white or cream-colored with black tips. Favorinus elenalexiae has a pair of rhinophores, sensory organs located on the head, which are usually orange or reddish-brown. The animal’s body can be quite variable in color, ranging from white to yellow to orange, and may have black or brown markings. The overall appearance of this nudibranch is quite striking, with its bright colors and distinctive cerata making it a popular subject for underwater photographers.
Habitat and Occurrence
Favorinus elenalexiae is found in the Mediterranean Sea and the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, typically in shallow, rocky areas. It prefers habitats with abundant algae and other invertebrate life, where it can find food and shelter. It is typically found in the intertidal zone and down to depths of about 10 meters. The species is a common resident of the infralittoral zone, which is the marine environment extending from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Favorinus elenalexiae belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Facelinidae. This family is known for its diverse and colorful members, many of which are carnivores and feed on other invertebrates. Nudibranchs are characterized by their lack of shells, their distinctive cerata, and their often flamboyant colors and patterns. The order Nudibranchia is a large and diverse group of sea slugs, with over 3,000 known species.
Feeding
Favorinus elenalexiae is a carnivorous nudibranch that feeds on a variety of small invertebrates, including other nudibranchs, polychaetes (segmented worms), and hydroids. It is a predatory species, using its radula, a toothed ribbon in its mouth, to scrape and tear its prey. Its diet includes Schneckenlaich, which is a type of egg mass laid by other sea snails.
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