Jorunna

Common Names

Jorunna species are commonly referred to as "sea slugs," "nudibranchs," or "dorid nudibranchs." Some species have specific common names, such as the "Jorunna parva," which is sometimes called the "Pikachu nudibranch" due to its resemblance to the popular cartoon character.

Characteristics

Jorunna species are typically small to medium-sized nudibranchs, with most species ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in length. They possess several defining characteristics:

• Soft, fleshy bodies: Like all nudibranchs, Jorunna species have a soft, unsegmented body without a shell.
• Brightly colored: Many Jorunna species exhibit vibrant colors, often in shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple, with intricate patterns and markings. This coloration serves as camouflage and a warning to potential predators.
• Rhinophores: These sensory organs are located on the dorsal side of the head, resembling small antennae, which they use to detect food and navigate.
• Cerata: Jorunna species have numerous cerata, finger-like projections, covering their dorsal surface. These cerata play a role in respiration and defense.
• Gill plume: Unlike some nudibranchs, Jorunna species have a single, feathery gill plume located on the dorsal surface near the posterior end.

Environments

Jorunna species are typically found in shallow, tropical, and subtropical marine environments, particularly in areas with coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds. They are often encountered on algae, sponges, or other invertebrates that they feed on.

References

For further information on Jorunna species, you can consult the following reliable sources:

• The Sea Slug Forum: https://www.seaslugforum.net/
• WoRMS (World Register of Marine Species): https://www.marinespecies.org/