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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Dalmatian Doris

In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean · Northeast Atlantic · Atlantic Ocean

The Dalmatian doris is unmistakable with its white body scattered with dark spots. Often seen slowly grazing on sponges, this nudibranch catches divers' attention. Its presence generally reveals a rocky seabed rich in attached organisms.

Habitat de Dalmatian Doris Habitat
Rocky habitat
Profondeur de Dalmatian Doris Depth
5-70 m
Groupe biologique de Dalmatian Doris Group
Mollusc
Rôle écologique de Dalmatian Doris Role
Predator

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The Dalmatian doris is a nudibranch with an oval, flattened body, easily recognised by its white colour covered in irregular dark spots. Its mantle has a slightly grainy appearance. At the front, two upright rhinophores act as sensory organs, while at the rear a plume of gills is arranged in a circle. Its vision is very limited, but it compensates with excellent chemical sensitivity.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It lives on rocky seabeds, often directly associated with the sponges it feeds on. It is found both in shaded areas such as caves and overhangs and on exposed rocks, generally between 5 and 70 metres deep.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

The Dalmatian doris mainly feeds on sponges, particularly certain species in the genus Petrosia. It uses its radula to scrape the surface of its prey and consume their tissues.

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