Cavolinia
Cavolinia is a genus of small, transparent, planktonic sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Cavoliniidae. These tiny, fragile creatures are often referred to as “sea butterflies” due to their wing-like parapodia, which they use for swimming. They are found worldwide in both warm and cold waters, playing an important role in the marine food web as prey for larger animals.
Common Names
Cavolinia species are commonly known as "sea butterflies" or "pteropods" due to their unique swimming appendages.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Cavolinia are characterized by their small, translucent, and delicate shells. Their bodies are typically elongated and oval-shaped, with two wing-like parapodia that they use for swimming. These parapodia are located on either side of the body and are covered in cilia, tiny hair-like structures that help propel the animals through the water.
Cavolinia species are also known for their unique feeding mechanisms. They are planktonic feeders, meaning they filter small organisms and organic matter from the water column. They achieve this by using a specialized feeding structure called a radula, which is covered in rows of tiny teeth.
Environments
Cavolinia species are found throughout the world's oceans, inhabiting both warm and cold waters. They are particularly abundant in the epipelagic zone, the uppermost layer of the ocean where sunlight penetrates. They are also found in deeper waters, but their populations tend to decline with increasing depth.