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Pink flatworm

Distribution : Mediterranean

On an organism-covered wall, the pink flatworm can follow a specific resource. Mediterranean studies of its relationship with small ascidians show that a predator only a few centimetres long can distinguish similar-looking prey.

Habitat of Pink flatworm Habitat
Rocky habitat, Coralligenous habitat, Detrital bottom
Depth range of Pink flatworm Depth
0-60 m
Biological group of Pink flatworm Group
Ecological role of Pink flatworm Role
Predator

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The form called Prostheceraeus roseus has a leaf-like, very thin pink to mauve body with fine white lines. Contrasting margins and two raised anterior folds form pseudotentacles, extensions of the body edge.

It lengthens or shortens while gliding, so apparent size changes with posture. Good lighting preserves patterns that ambient light can make look bluer at depth.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It crosses rocky surfaces, walls rich in attached life and crevices along French Mediterranean coasts. It may occur near calcifying algae, sponges, bryozoans and ascidians covering those features.

These varied neighbours do not alone describe its diet. Documenting feeding requires following contact with a particular organism.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Small Pycnoclavella ascidians are documented prey. The pharynx, a muscular digestive part, extends through the mouth to take food tissues. The digestive tract has no separate anus.

Comparative tests found preference for Pycnoclavella communis over Pycnoclavella nana and Pycnoclavella aurilucens. Observed preference should not become an absolute claim of exclusivity.

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Pink flatworm

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