Trapania cirrita is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Goniodorididae. It is a small, colorful nudibranch that is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world.
Description & Characteristics
Trapania cirrita is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of around 10 millimeters in length. It has a distinctive, elongated body with a pointed head and a tail that tapers to a point. The body is translucent, with a white or cream-colored background. There are numerous bright orange or red-orange cerata, which are finger-like projections that are found along the back and sides of the body. The cerata are covered in small, white spots. The rhinophores, or sensory organs, are club-shaped and are also covered in white spots. Trapania cirrita has a small, inconspicuous oral veil.
Habitat and Occurrence
Trapania cirrita is typically found in shallow, coastal waters. It is a common species in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shores. Trapania cirrita is often found in association with sponges, which are its primary food source.
Taxonomy
Trapania cirrita belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Goniodorididae. This species is part of the large and diverse group of sea slugs, which are characterized by their lack of external shells and their often vibrant and colorful appearances. The family Goniodorididae is known for its diverse array of brightly colored and patterned nudibranchs, many of which exhibit unique feeding behaviors and symbiotic relationships.
Feeding
Trapania cirrita is a carnivorous nudibranch that feeds primarily on sponges. It uses its radula, a ribbon-like structure in its mouth with rows of teeth, to scrape the sponge tissue. The cerata of Trapania cirrita are thought to play a role in the digestion of the sponge tissue. It is thought to ingest the sponge’s nematocysts, which are stinging cells, and use them for its own defense. These nematocysts are then stored within the cerata, providing Trapania cirrita with a potent form of chemical defense against predators.
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