Melibe
Melibe is a genus of nudibranchs, a group of marine gastropod mollusks that lack shells. These colorful and fascinating creatures are known for their unique morphology and feeding habits.
Common Names
Common names for Melibe species include "hooded nudibranch," "velar nudibranch," and "slipper snail."
Characteristics
Melibe nudibranchs are characterized by several distinctive features:
- Velum: A large, highly developed, and extensible oral veil (velum) that surrounds the mouth. The velum acts like a net, trapping small prey.
- Cerata: The body is covered in numerous finger-like projections called cerata. Cerata can be brightly colored and may contain stinging cells (nematocysts) from their prey, providing some defense.
- Rhinophores: Two sensory organs, located on the head, that help the nudibranch detect food and navigate.
- Size: Melibe species vary in size, with some reaching lengths of several inches.
Environments
Melibe nudibranchs are found in various marine habitats, primarily in shallow coastal waters. They are typically associated with:
- Rocky shores: They cling to rocks and seaweed in intertidal zones.
- Kelp forests: They inhabit kelp forests, often foraging among the kelp fronds.
- Seagrass beds: They can be found in seagrass meadows, where they search for prey.
Feeding
Melibe nudibranchs are carnivorous predators. They use their velum to capture small prey, including zooplankton, larvae, and other small invertebrates. The velum is covered in tiny hairs (cilia) that create a current, drawing prey into the mouth.