honorable mention
Finotti Mauro switzerlandPhoto © Finotti Mauro
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The flabellinae, among the most brightly colored nudibranchs, have numerous ceratae on their backs, elongated appendages with respiratory and digestive functions. In addition, the cerata also assume a defensive role because in them the cnidocytes, the stinging cells of the polyps of the hydrozoans, source of nourishment for the small molluscs, are collected and conserved.
The lively coloration of these little animals indicates their danger towards potential predators.
They are simultaneous hermaphroditic organisms and they practice cross mating.
After fertilization, they produce characteristic ovaries with numerous ovarian thecae held together by mucus. The ovaries of the flabellina in particular appear as intricate lilac-colored tangles.
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entry description
Nudibranchs are gastropod mollusks characterized by the total disappearance of the shell and consequent exposure of the gills. They possess particular organs on the head, the rhinophores with sensory, tactile and chemioreceptive functions.The flabellinae, among the most brightly colored nudibranchs, have numerous ceratae on their backs, elongated appendages with respiratory and digestive functions. In addition, the cerata also assume a defensive role because in them the cnidocytes, the stinging cells of the polyps of the hydrozoans, source of nourishment for the small molluscs, are collected and conserved.
The lively coloration of these little animals indicates their danger towards potential predators.
They are simultaneous hermaphroditic organisms and they practice cross mating.
After fertilization, they produce characteristic ovaries with numerous ovarian thecae held together by mucus. The ovaries of the flabellina in particular appear as intricate lilac-colored tangles.
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Underwater Photographerback to gallery