Aoridae
Aoridae is a family of small, predatory marine snails, also known as aorid sea slugs. These gastropods are classified under the order Nudibranchia, which are commonly called sea slugs or nudibranchs, within the subclass Opisthobranchia of the class Gastropoda.
Common Names
Aoridae are commonly referred to as "aorid sea slugs" or simply "aorids."
Characteristics
Aorid sea slugs are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length. They possess a distinctive, elongated body shape with a prominent head and a tail-like posterior end. Most aorids have a translucent body with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, often featuring orange, yellow, and white pigments.
One of the most notable features of Aoridae is their unique feeding apparatus. They possess a specialized radula, a ribbon-like structure containing rows of teeth, which they use to capture and consume their prey. Aorid sea slugs are carnivorous and primarily feed on hydroids, which are colonial animals belonging to the phylum Cnidaria.
Aorids also possess a distinctive defensive mechanism. They are capable of secreting a sticky, milky substance from their dorsal surface when threatened, which acts as a deterrent to potential predators.
Environment
Aorid sea slugs are found in a variety of marine habitats, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. They are widely distributed throughout the world's oceans, with a particularly high abundance in tropical and subtropical regions.
References
WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species
Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
ResearchGate - Aoridae