Nudibranch (Risbecia tryoni) - PNG

Risbecia tryoni is often found "tail-gating" one another whereby one individual follows the mucous trail of another. The reason for "tail-gating" is unknown, however, maybe a method of finding prey or a prelude to mating. Variation in colour and distribution of spots can differ between individuals. The tube-like appendix is the animals sexual organs; exposed here before copulation.

Often found with Imperial Shrimp (Periclimenes impertor) which feeds on parasites and mucous whilst obtaining protection from predators

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Filename: 6352 12 apr 2007.JPG
Copyright: © 2007 Iain D. Williams, All Rights Reserved
Image Size: 967x1450 / 389.6KB; www.AnaspidesPhotography.net; Papua New Guinea Milne Bay Underwater Marine Life Invertebrates Mollusca Gastropoda Nudibranchia Nudibranchs Opisthobranchia Sea Slugs Chromodorididae Risbecia Risbecia tryoni Crustacea Shrimps Imperial Shrimp Periclimenes impertor Copulation Mating Sex
Contained in galleries: Nudibranchs & Flatworms, Marine Invertebrates

Risbecia tryoni is often found "tail-gating" one another whereby one individual follows the mucous trail of another. The reason for "tail-gating" is unknown, however, maybe a method of finding prey or a prelude to mating. Variation in colour and distribution of spots can differ between individuals. The tube-like appendix is the animals sexual organs; exposed here before copulation.<br />
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Often found with Imperial Shrimp (Periclimenes impertor) which feeds on parasites and mucous whilst obtaining protection from predators