Oxynoe panamensis explained

Oxynoe panamensis is a species of small sea snail or sea slug, a bubble snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Oxynoidae.

Distribution

Oxynoe panamensis is found in mangrove swamps along the Baja California peninsula and Mexico coasts.[1] The type locality for this species is Bocas Islands, Panama.[2]

Life habits

This species feeds on Caulerpa sertularioides, a green siphonaceous algae. When irritated, Oxynoe panamensis excretes a potent, milky toxin from its skin.[1] There is known autotomy of the tail under persistent mechanical irritation.[1]

External links

Notes and References

  1. Lewin R. A. (1970). "Toxin secretion and tail autotomy by irritated Oxynoe panamensis (Opisthobranchiata: Sacoglossa)". Pacific Science 24: 356-358. PDF
  2. Jensen K. R. (November 2007). "Biogeography of the Sacoglossa (Mollusca, Opisthobranchia)" . Bonner zoologische Beiträge 55(2006)(3-4): 255–281.