toutidae

Toutidae is a family of marine gastropod molluscs, commonly known as sea slugs. They belong to the order Nudibranchia, which means "naked gills." Unlike many other sea slugs, toutids are characterized by their distinctly shaped mantle, often described as shield-like or hooded. This mantle can partially or fully cover the head and foot. Their coloration is highly variable, ranging from drab browns and grays to vibrant blues, greens, and oranges, often serving as camouflage or warning signals.

The diet of toutids typically consists of sessile invertebrates such as sponges, hydroids, and bryozoans. They possess a radula, a ribbon-like structure with teeth, which they use to scrape or tear their food. Reproduction in toutidae, as with most nudibranchs, involves simultaneous hermaphroditism, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs. They lay their eggs in gelatinous masses, often spiraled or ribbon-like, attached to their food source or a suitable substrate.

Toutidae are found in various marine environments worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to deeper ocean depths. They inhabit a range of substrates, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and sandy bottoms. Due to their specialized diets and habitat requirements, their distribution can be patchy. Research on toutidae focuses on their evolutionary relationships, ecological roles, and the chemical compounds they may sequester from their prey for defense.