Norfolkia
Norfolkia is a genus of small, brightly colored sea slugs, commonly known as nudibranchs. These marine gastropods are part of the Chromodorididae family, belonging to the order Nudibranchia, within the class Gastropoda. Norfolkia species are characterized by their striking coloration, often displaying bright hues of orange, yellow, and blue. Their bodies are typically elongated and oval-shaped, with prominent rhinophores (sensory organs) and cerata (projections on the back). They feed on sponges, often incorporating the sponge’s toxins into their own tissues for defense.
Common Names
Although commonly referred to as nudibranchs, Norfolkia species lack common names in the general sense. They are typically identified by their scientific names due to the limited number of species and their relatively specialized habitat.
Characteristics
Norfolkia nudibranchs share several defining characteristics:
- Coloration: Typically vibrant, with combinations of orange, yellow, blue, and white.
- Body Shape: Elongated and oval-shaped, with a flattened dorsal surface.
- Rhinophores: Prominent and often lamellate (with numerous folds or ridges).
- Cerata: Numerous, cylindrical, and often branched, covering the dorsal surface.
- Size: Generally small, with most species reaching a maximum length of a few centimeters.
- Diet: Sponge feeders, specializing in particular sponge species.
- Defense: Incorporate sponge toxins into their tissues for chemical defense.
Environment
Norfolkia nudibranchs inhabit tropical and subtropical waters, typically found in coral reefs and rocky areas. They prefer environments with a high diversity of sponges, as their diet is specialized.
References
For more information on the genus Norfolkia, you can explore these reliable resources: