Trapania gibbera is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Goniodorididae. This species of nudibranch is known for its distinctive appearance and fascinating feeding habits.
Description & Characteristics
Trapania gibbera is a small, colorful nudibranch that typically reaches a maximum size of 10 millimeters. It is characterized by its elongated body, which tapers towards the tail. Its body is adorned with numerous, small, white tubercles, which are located along the dorsal surface. The rhinophores (sensory organs on the head) are long and club-shaped, and they are often tipped with bright orange or yellow. The oral tentacles (protrusions near the mouth) are also elongated and have a distinctive orange or yellow tip.
Habitat and Occurrence
Trapania gibbera is typically found in shallow water, ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of 10 meters. This species is known to inhabit various marine zones, including the Indo-Pacific region, and is often found on coral reefs and rocky substrates.
Taxonomy
The species Trapania gibbera belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Goniodorididae. This family of nudibranchs is characterized by their distinctive dorsal gills, which are arranged in a circular or horseshoe-shaped pattern.
Feeding
Trapania gibbera is a food specialist, feeding exclusively on Kelchwürmer (Entroprocta), a group of marine invertebrates. The nudibranch uses its radula, a ribbon of teeth, to scrape the Entroprocts off the substrate.
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