Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm
Yungia aurantiaca
Max Size
See in AppMax Weight
—
Max Depth
25 m
Description
Yungia aurantiaca is a species of flatworm in the family Pseudocerotidae. It is found in the temperate northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm is very thin and leaf-like, broadly oval in outline, with a thickened central ridge and a lobed, wavy margin. The dorsal surface is orange with fine white spots and a white margin, and the ventral surface is whitish. Some folds at the edge of the head form folds that function as tentacles. In between these is a horseshoe-shaped ring of eyespots, and the head also bears chemoreceptors. A single central opening on the underside serves both as the mouth and the anus, and opens into the pharynx; this aperture can be used as a sucker to secure the flatworm to the substrate. The edges of this worm form ruffles. It presents an orange colouring, sometimes with a white ridge and white dotting. This species can reach 2-5 cm in length.
Habitat
They are distributed throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. They inhabit shallow areas between 5 and 25 m. They prefer cold waters and rocky bottoms with abundance in algae.
Diet
The Y.aurantica is carnivorous and feed on crustaceans, worms and other invertebrates.
Protection Status
This species is not evaluated by the IUCN Red List.
Interesting facts
This animal present an amazing regeneration capacity, so a very small piece of their body can form a complete animal.
Where to Find
Colors
Similar Species
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm dangerous?
Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm has no known danger to humans. However, always observe marine life responsibly.
Where can you find Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm?
Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm can be found in: Morocco North, Montenegro, Spain West, Spain East, Croatia, Slovenia, Malta, Israel, France North West, Egypt North, France South, Turkey West, Israel North, Mediterranean Sea, Lebanon, Tunisia, Cyprus, Monaco, Spain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Libya, Algeria, Egypt, Portugal, Albania, Syria, Palestine, Italy, Greece, France, Turkey, Morocco.
How deep does Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm live?
Mediterranean Orange Polyclad Worm can be found at depths of up to 25 meters.