Aplousobranchia

Aplousobranchia is a clade of sea slugs, belonging to the order Nudibranchia, a group of marine gastropods that have lost their shells during their evolution. Aplousobranchia is a highly diverse clade, encompassing a wide range of body forms and feeding habits.

Didemnum jucundum

Tunicate – Diazona formosa

Didemnum fulgens

Raspberry Ascidian – Didemnum cuculliferum

Frail Diazona – Diazona tenera

Didemnum roseum

Didemnum perlucidum

Distaplia alaskensis

Photosymbiotic Sea Squirt – Diplosoma virens

Distaplia viridis

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Common Names

Aplousobranchia are commonly known as "dorid nudibranchs" or "dorids", due to their characteristic dorsal (back) side that is often covered in prominent, wart-like projections called "cerata".

Characteristics

Aplousobranchia exhibit several defining characteristics that distinguish them from other nudibranchs. These include:

  • Cerata: These are finger-like projections on the dorsal surface, often brightly colored and containing digestive glands.
  • Rhinophores: These are sensory organs located on the head, used for detecting food and chemicals in the water.
  • Gill: Most aplousobranchs have a single gill located at the posterior end of the body, which is often surrounded by a fleshy mantle.
  • Absence of oral tentacles: Unlike some other nudibranchs, aplousobranchs lack oral tentacles.

Environments

Aplousobranchs are found in a wide range of marine environments, including shallow coastal waters, deeper reefs, and even the open ocean. They are commonly found on rocks, algae, and other invertebrates.

References

Wikipedia: Aplousobranchia
World Register of Marine Species: Aplousobranchia