The Uncinate Cavoline, Sea Angel, scientifically known as Cavolinia uncinata, is a small, delicate, and translucent marine gastropod mollusk. It is a member of the pteropod order, commonly known as “sea angels.” These fascinating creatures are adapted for life in the open ocean, where they play a vital role in the marine food web.
Description & Characteristics
The Cavolinia uncinata is characterized by its elongated, slender body, typically reaching a maximum size of 10 millimeters. Its transparent shell is thin and fragile, with a delicate, slightly curved shape. The head region of the Cavolinia uncinata bears a pair of wing-like appendages called parapodia, which are used for swimming. The parapodia are translucent and can be extended and retracted, allowing for precise movement through the water.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Uncinate Cavoline, Sea Angel, Cavolinia uncinata, is an inhabitant of the open ocean, with a preference for the epipelagic zone, which extends from the surface down to about 200 meters. They are often found in tropical and subtropical waters, making them a prominent presence in the vast expanse of the world’s oceans. The Cavolinia uncinata plays a vital role in the marine food web, inhabiting the mesopelagic zone, where it feeds on phytoplankton and other small organisms.
Taxonomy
The species Cavolinia uncinata belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Pteropoda, and Family: Cavoliniidae. This classification places it within the larger group of gastropod mollusks, which includes snails, slugs, and other related species. The pteropod order, to which the Cavolinia uncinata belongs, is characterized by its unique swimming adaptations, particularly the presence of wing-like parapodia. The Cavoliniidae family further encompasses several species of sea angels, distinguished by their distinctive features and adaptations for life in the open ocean.
Feeding
The Cavolinia uncinata is a planktonic predator, feeding primarily on phytoplankton, which are microscopic algae that form the base of the marine food web. They are adept at capturing their prey using their specialized feeding apparatus, effectively contributing to the intricate balance of the marine ecosystem.
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