Modern AI interpretation of hooded sea slug form.
Modern AI interpretation of Melibe leonina; fine sensory anatomy and vegetation are schematic.
Overview
Melibe leonina is a sea slug with an enlarged oral hood surrounded by two rows of slender tentacles. Dave Cowles describes paired rows of leaf-like or paddle-like cerata along its translucent back and small rhinophores on the hood. It lacks a radula. While attached to vegetation, it sweeps its hood through the water and closes the fringe around small prey. Eelgrass and kelp provide a setting for this feeding apparatus.
Watson and Chester tested feeding responses to prey-conditioned water, particles, frozen Artemia and live Artemia. Chemical cues alone increased hood closures but produced incomplete feeding cycles; particle treatments elicited normal movements. Combining cues strengthened the response, yet live prey remained more effective. The authors suggested another signal, perhaps vibration, might contribute. This experiment separates a plausible sensory mechanism from a demonstrated one and avoids treating one laboratory treatment as the species’ complete natural diet.
Origins & earliest records
Extant species; the cited experiments examine feeding cues rather than evolutionary origin.
Evidence & interpretation
Scientific and institutional observations.
Selected bibliography
Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.
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Family & connections
A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.
Look for a taxonomic record and classified relativesReferences
Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.
- University-hosted observational species accountMelibe leonina species accountResearch access: 2026-10-12
- Primary research abstract, UNH repositoryThe influence of olfactory and tactile stimuli on the feeding behavior of Melibe leoninaResearch access: 2026-10-12
Image credits
Modern scientific interpretationModern AI interpretation of hooded sea slug form.
Modern AI interpretation of Melibe leonina; fine sensory anatomy and vegetation are schematic.