Hypselodoris lacuna, commonly known as the Hypselodoris lacuna, is a colorful and striking species of sea slug belonging to the family Chromodorididae. This nudibranch is known for its distinctive appearance and its specialized diet.
Description & Characteristics
The Hypselodoris lacuna is a relatively small nudibranch, with adults reaching a maximum size of around 30 mm in length. It exhibits a vibrant color pattern, featuring a bright orange or red body with a series of white or cream-colored spots distributed across its dorsum. These spots can vary in size and shape, creating a unique and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The Hypselodoris lacuna also possesses a pair of prominent rhinophores, which are sensory organs that help it detect food and navigate its surroundings.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Hypselodoris lacuna is a marine species that primarily inhabits the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the Red Sea to the Pacific Ocean. It is often found in shallow, tropical waters, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters. This nudibranch prefers to inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas where its preferred food source, sponges, is abundant. Its presence in these ecosystems makes it a significant contributor to the biodiversity of the Indo-Pacific region.
Taxonomy
The species Hypselodoris lacuna belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Chromodorididae. This classification places it within the broader group of mollusks, specifically within the subclass of gastropods. The family Chromodorididae is a diverse group of nudibranchs that are characterized by their vibrant colors and their often-specialized diets.
Feeding
Hypselodoris lacuna is a food specialist, exclusively feeding on sponges. This feeding habit is crucial for its survival as it relies on the sponges for both nutrition and protection. The nudibranch extracts toxins from the sponges, which it stores in its body for defense against predators. This process makes it a chemically defended nudibranch, deterring potential threats from consuming it. This unique relationship with sponges is a fascinating example of coevolution, where both species have adapted to benefit from the interaction.
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