Flameback - Oceana

Marine Life Encyclopedia

Corals and Other Invertebrates

Flameback

Phidiana Lottini

Distribution

Tropical to temperate latitudes of the southeastern Pacific Ocean

eCOSYSTEM/HABITAT

Rocky reefs

FEEDING HABITS

Foraging predator

TAXONOMY

Class Gastropoda (snails, slugs, and relatives), Superfamily Aeolidioidea (aeolid nudibranchs)

     

    The bright orange, white-tipped structures along the flameback’s dorsal surface are called cerata and increase the surface area of the skin. This nudibranch absorbs oxygen through its skin, so increased surface area aids in respiration. The cerata also increase the number of defense cells that the flameback can store from its prey. The flameback, like all nudibranchs, is simultaneously hermaphroditic – each individual produces both eggs and sperm. An individual cannot fertilize its own eggs, however, and pairs still must mate. They reproduce via internal fertilization and lay eggs, which they stick to the reef surface or other hard substrates. The long strings of eggs are often spiral shaped. Neither parent cares for or guards the eggs.

    Like most small marine invertebrates, little is known about the conservation status of the flameback, but this species has a relatively small home range. Therefore, any significant changes to the rocky reef ecosystems in its range or general threats to the marine environment could risk this naturally rare species.

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