Characteristics
Plakobranchidae are characterized by their vibrant, often translucent bodies. They come in a range of colors, including green, yellow, orange, and red. Their bodies are elongated and flattened, resembling a leaf or a thin ribbon. Some species possess cerata, small, finger-like projections on their backs, which are thought to serve as sensory organs.
Environment
These slugs are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer shallow, sheltered habitats, often inhabiting coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and rocky shores. Plakobranchidae are typically found crawling on algae or other marine plants, their feeding behavior making them closely tied to these environments.
Diet
Plakobranchidae are herbivorous, feeding primarily on specific types of algae, such as species belonging to the genera Avrainvillea and Bryopsis. They consume the algae's cells, extracting their chloroplasts and incorporating them into their own tissues. This process, known as kleptoplasty, allows them to acquire the necessary machinery for photosynthesis.
References
For more detailed information about Plakobranchidae, you can consult these resources:
