Chaetopleuridae

Common Names

Members of the Chaetopleuridae family are commonly referred to as "pleurobranchs." This name comes from the Greek words "pleuron" (side) and "branchia" (gills), reflecting the presence of gills on the right side of their bodies.

Characteristics

Chaetopleuridae members share several key characteristics:

• Lack of a shell: Unlike most gastropods, pleurobranchs do not have an external shell. This makes them vulnerable to predation, but also allows for greater maneuverability and flexibility in navigating complex habitats.
• Flattened body: Their bodies are flattened, often resembling a leaf or a pancake, allowing them to cling to surfaces and hide in crevices.
• Cerata: These fleshy projections, located along the dorsal side of the body, are covered with cilia and function as respiratory organs. They also play a role in defense, containing stinging cells known as nematocysts.
• Bright coloration: Pleurobranchs often display vibrant colors and patterns, which serve as camouflage or warning signals to potential predators.

Environments

Chaetopleuridae members are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

• Shallow, tropical and subtropical waters: They are most abundant in warm, coastal waters with abundant algae and invertebrates, their primary food sources.
• Rocky reefs: Pleurobranchs often utilize rocky reefs for shelter, camouflage, and foraging opportunities.
• Seagrass beds: Some species are commonly found in seagrass meadows, feeding on algae and other organisms that grow within these habitats.

References

For further information on Chaetopleuridae, please refer to the following resources:

• World Register of Marine Species
• NCBI Taxonomy Browser