Common Names
While "onchidorid nudibranchs" is a common name, members of this family may be referred to by other names depending on the specific species and geographic location. Some examples include:
- Sea slugs
- Nudibranchs
- Dorid nudibranchs (although this term is more broadly applied to the order Doridacea)
Characteristics
Onchidorididae share several defining characteristics:
- Body shape: Generally oval, with a soft and often gelatinous texture.
- Size: Small to medium-sized, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length.
- Color: Exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, including brown, grey, green, and even bright yellow or orange.
- Rhinophores: Short, club-shaped sensory organs located on the head, used to detect chemical cues and locate prey.
- Cerata: Finger-like projections along the back, often containing digestive glands and defensive structures.
- Gill: Branchial plumes located beneath the mantle, often hidden.
- Mantle: A protective covering that extends over the body, often covering the gills.
- Radula: A ribbon-like structure in the mouth with rows of teeth, used for scraping algae and other food sources.
Environment and Distribution
Onchidorididae are found in various marine environments, including:
- Coastal waters
- Intertidal zones
- Subtidal regions
- Rocky shores
- Seaweed beds
- Coral reefs
Their distribution is global, with members of this family present in temperate and tropical waters around the world.
References
For further information on Onchidorididae, please refer to the following reliable sources:
