Scotti’s Armina (Armina scotti) is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, belonging to the family Arminidae. It is known for its striking appearance and predatory nature.
Description & Characteristics
Armina scotti is a relatively large nudibranch, reaching a maximum size of around 100 mm (4 inches) in length. Its body is typically a bright orange-red color with a series of white or cream-colored spots or blotches along its back. The surface of its body is often covered in small bumps or tubercles, contributing to its rough texture. Scotti’s Armina possesses a pair of prominent, retractable rhinophores (sensory organs) on its head, which are used to detect food and other stimuli.
Habitat and Occurrence
Armina scotti is a marine species that typically inhabits shallow, rocky, or coral reef environments. It is found in the intertidal zone and subtidal regions, occurring at depths ranging from the surface to about 30 meters (100 feet). The distribution of Armina scotti is primarily restricted to the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Australia. This species is often observed in the tropical marine zone, where its preferred habitats are located.
Taxonomy
Armina scotti belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Arminidae. The family Arminidae is a group of nudibranchs known for their typically elongated bodies, predatory habits, and lack of external shells.
Feeding
Armina scotti is a voracious predator that specializes in feeding on coral polyps. This makes it a corallivorous species. Armina scotti uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure with teeth, to scrape and devour its prey. Its diet consists mainly of stony corals, where it consumes the polyps, leaving behind the skeleton. This predatory behavior plays a role in shaping the coral reef ecosystem.
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