The Tom Smith’s Nudibranch, scientifically known as Ardeadoris tomsmithi, is a captivating species of sea slug belonging to the family Chromodorididae. Characterized by its vibrant coloration and striking patterns, this nudibranch is a fascinating example of the diverse and intricate world of marine life.
Description & Characteristics
Ardeadoris tomsmithi is a relatively small nudibranch, with individuals typically reaching a maximum size of around 25 millimeters in length. Its body is elongated and somewhat flattened, with a smooth, glossy surface. The most striking feature of the Tom Smith’s Nudibranch is its coloration. The dorsal surface is typically a bright, vibrant yellow, adorned with distinctive, dark brown to black blotches or spots. This contrasting color combination is not only visually appealing but also serves as a warning signal to potential predators, indicating that the nudibranch is distasteful or even poisonous.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Tom Smith’s Nudibranch is primarily found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution extends from the western Pacific Ocean to the eastern Indian Ocean, encompassing areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. This species is typically found in shallow, coastal waters, often inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. It is a common resident of the intertidal and subtidal zones, with its preferred depth range falling between 2 and 15 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Ardeadoris tomsmithi belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Chromodorididae. This classification highlights its position within the broader taxonomic framework of marine invertebrates. It is grouped within the Gastropoda class, which encompasses a vast array of mollusks characterized by their coiled shells, though Ardeadoris tomsmithi has lost its shell during its evolutionary journey. Further categorization places it within the Nudibranchia order, a diverse group of shell-less gastropods with conspicuous external gills. Finally, its placement within the Chromodorididae family reflects its close evolutionary relationship to other colorful and visually striking nudibranch species.
Feeding
Ardeadoris tomsmithi is a food specialist, meaning it has a specialized diet consisting primarily of certain types of marine organisms. Its main food sources are sponges and certain types of snails. This dietary preference is a key adaptation that allows Ardeadoris tomsmithi to thrive in its specific habitat, exploiting readily available food resources while minimizing competition with other marine animals. The nudibranch’s ability to extract nutrients from these prey items contributes to its vibrant coloration and provides it with necessary chemical defenses against predation.
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