Introduction.
Nudibranchs ! So far one of the most interesting creatures I have ever seen in my 18 years on this planet, and I must say, these little guys take the cake when it comes to appearance vs any other animal.
"What are Nudibranchs?" you maybe asking ask .
Nudibranchs are a species of soft bodied, marine gastropod mollusks which shed their shells after their larval stage. They are most well known and recognized for their often extraordinary and beautiful colours and striking forms, They have been given creative nicknames to match, name like "Marigold", "Clown", "Splendid", "Dancer" and my personal favorite,"Dragon". There are at this time, around 2,300 valid species of nudibranchs that are known.
"Where are they and how can I get one ?"
They can be found throughout the world's oceans, but are most abundant in shallow, tropical waters. You can have one as a pet but it would be a hassle because of how fussy tit is to what it to what it eats and the fact that it likes being around its own kind, so It might be hard to keep them in an aquarium, but it is possible. I want one to don't worry XD.
Defense of the Nudibranchs.
This species includes some of the most colourful creatures on this planet. In the time of their evolution, nudibranchs have lost their shell while developing alternative defense mechanisms over a long period of time. Some species evolved an external anatomy with textures and colors that mimicked surrounding sessile invertebrate animals to avoid predators. Other nudibranchs, as seen especially well on chromodoris, have an very strong, bright and contrasting color pattern that makes them especially conspicuous in their surroundings.
Diet of the Nudibranchs.
The nudibranchs eat using a radula. They are carnivorous, so their prey includes sponges, coral, anemones, hydroids, barnacles, fish eggs, sea slugs, and other nudibranchs. Individual species or families of nudibranchs may eat only a single type of prey.
Lifecycle.
Their lifespan varies widely, with some living less than a month, and others living up to one year. Nudibranchs (naked gills) live their entire lives fully exposed, with no shell.
Conclusion.
There are some remarkable and beautiful creatures, I find it so amazing that each individual species look and have such different attributes. They are a symbol for beauty and mystery of mother nature.
Thank you so much for checking out my post ! If you have any questions , I'll be more than happy to answer any you may have .
Please don't for get to UPVOTE and RESTEEM.
FOLLOW ME so that you don't miss any of my new posts .
Learning about weird, fascinating creatures is always a blast.
Glad you enjoyed the post ! :)
Very good article, thanks :)
Thank you :)
Good job, Stefan!