The Warty Slug – Phyllidiella meandrina is a species of sea slug, a type of marine gastropod mollusk. This fascinating creature is part of the Nudibranchia order, known for their striking colors and lack of a shell. Phyllidiella meandrina is a member of the Phyllidiidae family, which includes other colorful and uniquely patterned slugs.
Description & Characteristics
The Warty Slug – Phyllidiella meandrina is easily identifiable due to its distinct appearance. Its body is characterized by a series of prominent wart-like bumps, which give it a textured and slightly uneven surface. The color of this slug can vary, but it typically exhibits shades of gray or brown with patches of orange or yellow, creating a striking contrast against its warty body. It can reach a maximum size of up to 50 mm, making it a relatively small but noticeable sea slug.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Warty Slug – Phyllidiella meandrina is a common sight in tropical and subtropical waters. This species is known to inhabit a variety of marine habitats, including atolls, landward-facing reefs, and seaward-facing reefs. Its presence in these diverse environments underscores its adaptability and its ability to thrive in a range of coral reef ecosystems. The Warty Slug – Phyllidiella meandrina is typically found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to approximately 20 meters below the surface.
Taxonomy
The species Phyllidiella meandrina belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Phyllidiidae. Gastropods are a large and diverse class of mollusks, including snails, slugs, and sea slugs. Nudibranchia, commonly referred to as sea slugs, are characterized by their lack of a shell and their often vibrant colors. The Phyllidiidae family comprises a variety of sea slugs, many of which, including Phyllidiella meandrina, exhibit distinctive wart-like bumps on their bodies.
Feeding
The Warty Slug – Phyllidiella meandrina is a food specialist, meaning it has a specific diet that it relies upon. This slug is primarily a sponge-eater, consuming a variety of sponges that it finds in its coral reef habitat. This specialized feeding behavior plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping to regulate sponge populations and maintain a healthy balance within the reef environment.
Image References