Dendronotus

Common Names

Common names for Dendronotus species include "tree nudibranchs" or "dendronotids", referencing their distinctive cerata that resemble small trees or branches.

Characteristics

Dendronotus nudibranchs exhibit a range of colors and patterns, including shades of orange, red, yellow, brown, and white. They possess a distinctive, elongated body shape with a distinct head bearing two rhinophores (sensory organs) and a mouth. One of the most notable features of Dendronotus is their cerata, which are feathery, branched, or finger-like protrusions along the back. These cerata serve as both respiratory organs and defensive structures, housing nematocysts (stinging cells) obtained from their diet.

Environments

Dendronotus nudibranchs are found in a variety of marine environments, typically in cold and temperate waters. They prefer rocky shores, kelp forests, and other habitats where their prey, such as hydroids, is abundant.

Feeding

Dendronotus species are carnivorous and specialize in consuming hydroids, a type of colonial cnidarian. They use their radula (a toothed ribbon in the mouth) to scrape and ingest hydroids, incorporating the nematocysts into their own tissues for defense.

Reproduction

Dendronotus nudibranchs are hermaphroditic, meaning they possess both male and female reproductive organs. However, they typically engage in cross-fertilization, laying egg masses in spiral or ribbon-like formations. The eggs hatch into free-swimming larvae that eventually settle and develop into adult nudibranchs.

References

For further information on Dendronotus, consult the following reliable sources:

• World Register of Marine Species
• Sea Slug Forum