The White Edged Nudibranch, scientifically known as Coryphella capensis, is a captivating species of sea slug belonging to the family Coryphellidae. These nudibranchs are characterized by their vibrant colors and delicate, almost translucent bodies, making them a delight for underwater enthusiasts.
Description & Characteristics
The Coryphella capensis is a relatively small nudibranch, typically reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters. Its body is elongated and slender, with a prominent white band running along the edge of its mantle, hence its common name. The rest of the body can be a variety of colors, including shades of orange, yellow, and red, often interspersed with white speckles. The Coryphella capensis features two prominent rhinophores, sensory organs used for detecting chemical cues in the water, and cerata, finger-like projections that extend from the back of the animal. These cerata are particularly striking as they are often brightly colored and can even appear iridescent.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Coryphella capensis is a common sight on rocky shores and rock coasts along the coast of South Africa. They are typically found in shallow water, inhabiting the intertidal zone and extending down to a depth of a few meters. The Coryphella capensis is often observed in areas with moderate water flow, where they can easily access their food sources. This distribution makes them a prevalent presence in the temperate coastal waters of the region, contributing to the biodiversity of these marine zones.
Taxonomy
The species Coryphella capensis belongs to the Class: Gastropoda, Order: Nudibranchia, and Family: Coryphellidae. The Nudibranchia order, encompassing a diverse group of sea slugs, is characterized by the lack of an external shell and the presence of exposed gills, giving rise to their common name “naked gill.” Within this order, the Coryphella capensis is classified in the Coryphellidae family, which is known for its members’ elongated and slender bodies, often featuring prominent cerata.
Feeding
The Coryphella capensis is a specialist feeder, relying entirely on hydrozoa polyps as its food source. These polyps, often found in colonies on rocks and other surfaces, provide the Coryphella capensis with essential nutrients. The nudibranch’s unique feeding strategy involves using its radula, a ribbon-like structure with rows of teeth, to scrape and ingest the polyps. Interestingly, the Coryphella capensis can even incorporate nematocysts, stinging cells from the hydrozoa polyps, into its own cerata. This adaptation allows the nudibranch to utilize the stinging cells as a defense mechanism, making it a formidable predator in its environment.
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