Ghost nudibranch
The ghost nudibranch, Lecithophorus capensis, is a species of dorid nudibranch, and is only found in South Africa. It is a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Polyceridae. It is the sole species of the genus Lecithophorus.[1]
| Ghost nudibranch | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Gastropoda |
| Subclass: | Heterobranchia |
| Order: | Nudibranchia |
| Suborder: | Doridina |
| Superfamily: | Polyceroidea |
| Family: | Polyceridae |
| Genus: | Lecithophorus |
| Species: | L. capensis |
| Binomial name | |
| Lecithophorus capensis Macnae, 1958 | |
Distribution
This species is endemic to the South African coast and is found on both sides of the Cape Peninsula from the intertidal to at least 30 m.[2]
Description
The ghost nudibranch is an almost transparent animal with a deep body and an opaque white margin. Its digestive system is visible as a purple mass at the posterior end of its body. Its rhinophores and gills are white.[3]
Ecology
The ghost nudibranch feeds on colonial sea squirts and bryozoans.
References
- Lecithophorus Macnae, 1958. Retrieved through: World Register of Marine Species on 10 January 2019.
- GOSLINER, T.M. 1987. Nudibranchs of Southern Africa ISBN 0-930118-13-8
- ZSILAVECZ, G. 2007. Nudibranchs of the Cape Peninsula and False Bay. ISBN 0-620-38054-3
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