Nembrotha
Nembrotha is a genus of colorful, predatory sea slugs, belonging to the family Polyceridae. Often called “sea hares” due to their striking, sometimes vibrant coloration, these nudibranchs are characterized by their elongated bodies, prominent rhinophores, and distinctive, sometimes branched, cerata – finger-like projections on their backs. Nembrotha species are found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, residing in shallow, tropical waters, often among coral reefs or rocky substrates.
Common Names
Common names for Nembrotha species include:
- Nembrotha nudibranchs
- Sea hares (though this term can also refer to other unrelated gastropods)
Characteristics
Nembrotha nudibranchs are distinguished by the following key features:
- Elongated body: Their bodies are generally long and slender, sometimes resembling a worm or a ribbon.
- Prominent rhinophores: These sensory organs, located on the head, are long and thin, and often have a distinctive club-shaped tip.
- Branched cerata: Their cerata, which are finger-like projections along their backs, can be simple or highly branched, and are often covered in small, stinging nematocysts, used for defense and capturing prey.
- Variety of colors and patterns: Nembrotha species are renowned for their diverse coloration, ranging from bright orange and yellow to deep purple and black, often with intricate patterns and markings.
Environment
Nembrotha species are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including:
- Coral reefs
- Rocky substrates
- Seagrass beds
They prefer shallow, sheltered areas with ample food sources, often hiding in crevices and under rocks during the day.
References
For more detailed information on Nembrotha, consult the following reliable sources: