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The eolid nudibranchs do not have specialized naked gills like the dorids. Instead, they usually have multiple paired rows of dorsal processes called cerata. While they do greatly increase the surface area of the nudibranch for respiration, they often also function in defense. Most eolids are specialized feeders on cniderians, otherwise known as corals and their relatives. Cniderians usually have stinging cells called nematocysts to catch prey or try to deter predation. This defense doesn't keep them from being eaten by nudibranchs, but many of the nudibranchs are able to take those nematocysts from their prey and use them in their own defense. They somehow keep from digesting the nematocysts they ingest along with their prey's tissue and move those stinging cells through branches of the digestive system that extend up into the cerata. There, in the tips of the cerata, the nematocysts are put into place and cause the nudibranch to become as effective at stinging potential predators, usually fish, as are the cniderians themselves. Some eolids eat hydroids, others eat anemones or hard or soft corals. One even eats the dreaded Portuguese man-o-war. Some, however, eat harmless prey without nematocysts, and these species often rely on camouflage to protect themselves. As in the other nudibranch groups, there is some fascinating biology going on behind the scenes that makes the eolids much more than just attractive photo subjects. In the Marshalls, many eolids are small and scarce. Lots of species max out at less than 10mm, and at times the resolution of the photos reachable through this page is not ideal. In addition, there are a number of species we have recorded here for which we do not have pictures. With luck we will run across more specimens and be able to post photos of more species as time goes on. Although slower to load, the same list accompanied by thumbnail images can be found here. |
FLABELLINIDAE |