Tethydidae
Tethydidae is a family of sea slugs, specifically nudibranchs, belonging to the order Nudibranchia within the class Gastropoda. They are commonly known as “Tethys slugs” or “Tethys nudibranchs” and are characterized by their distinctive body shapes and vibrant colors.
Characteristics
Tethydidae members are typically large and flattened, often resembling a leaf or a broad, fleshy ribbon. They possess a prominent dorsal mantle that often extends beyond the head, resembling a pair of "ears" or "wings." These mantle lobes can be smooth or ruffled and contribute to the distinctive appearance of these slugs. Tethys nudibranchs are also known for their bright and contrasting colors, often featuring shades of orange, red, yellow, or white.
A unique feature of Tethydidae is their feeding mechanism. Their mouths are equipped with a specialized radula, a ribbon-like structure covered in rows of teeth. This radula is adapted to rasp and scrape algae from surfaces, their primary food source.
Environments
Tethys slugs are predominantly found in shallow, warm-water environments, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are commonly observed on coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. They prefer habitats with abundant algal growth, which serves as their primary food source.
References
For further information and detailed scientific resources on Tethydidae, please refer to the following links: