Bursatella
Bursatella is a genus of sea slugs, commonly known as “leaf slugs” or “lettuce slugs,” belonging to the family Pleurobranchidae within the order Nudibranchia. These marine gastropods are characterized by their flattened, leaf-like bodies and vibrant coloration, often displaying shades of green, brown, or yellow. They are typically found in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones of tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Characteristics
Bursatella species exhibit a range of morphological features that distinguish them from other nudibranchs. Notably, their bodies are broadly oval and flattened, resembling leaves. Their dorsal surface is typically smooth, with the mantle extending beyond the sides of the foot. The gills, located on the right side of the body, are prominent and feathery. These slugs possess a pair of rhinophores, sensory organs, located on the dorsal surface, which are used to detect food and navigate their environment. The mouth is located on the ventral side of the body and contains a radula, a tongue-like structure with rows of teeth, used for scraping algae off surfaces.
Environments
Bursatella species are primarily found in coastal habitats, particularly intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. They prefer areas with abundant algae, their primary food source. These sea slugs are often observed on rocks, seagrass, and other submerged surfaces. They are active during the day and are commonly seen crawling or gliding across the substrate.
Common Names
While scientifically known as Bursatella, these sea slugs are commonly referred to by several names, including:
- Leaf slugs
- Lettuce slugs
- Pleurobranchs