Common Names
Aeolidiidae are commonly known as "aeolids" or "aeolid nudibranchs." The name "aeolid" originates from the Greek word "aeolos," meaning "swift" or "varied," likely referring to their agile movements and diverse coloration.
Characteristics
Aeolids are characterized by the following features:
- Cerata: Finger-like projections on the dorsum, used for respiration, defense, and digestion.
- Rhinophores: Sensory organs used to detect food and chemicals in the water.
- Oral Tentacles: Short, retractable tentacles located near the mouth, used to sense prey and guide it towards the mouth.
- Coloration: Often brightly colored, ranging from red, orange, yellow, green, blue, to purple, with various patterns and markings.
- Size: Typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length.
Environments
Aeolids are found in various marine environments, including:
- Rocky shores: Found in tidal pools, on rocks, and on seaweed.
- Coral reefs: Often found on coral and sponges.
- Seagrass meadows: Associated with seagrasses and other benthic algae.
References
For more information, refer to these reliable sources:
