More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
Optimized for viewing on desktop or laptop
Flatworms of Zihuatanejo
FAMILY DIPOSTHIDAE
-Flatworms (Phylum Platyhelminthes)
-Subphylum Rhabditophora
-Polyclad Flatworms (Order Polycladida)
-Suborder Cotylea
-Family Pseudocerotidae
-Genus Pseudoceros
Pericelis flatworms are marine, free-living flatworms known for their thin, flexible bodies. The body is typically broad and oval to elongate, strongly flattened, and lacks any hard structures, allowing the animal to glide smoothly over substrates. Many species display vivid colour patterns. Members of Pericelis possess a pair of pseudotentacles formed by folds of the anterior body margin, which often bear clusters of eyespots used to detect light and movement. Additional eyes may be scattered along the front edge of the body. The dorsal surface is usually smooth, while the ventral side carries a ciliated epidermis that enables locomotion by gliding. Like other polyclads, Pericelis species have a highly branched digestive system and a ventral, protrusible pharynx, which they use to feed on small invertebrates such as ascidians, mollusks, or crustaceans. Pericelis flatworms are commonly found in shallow tropical and subtropical marine habitats, especially on coral reefs, rocky substrates, and under stones, where they remain hidden during the day and become more active at night.
Description
Pericelis is a genus of marine polyclad flatworms in the family Pericelidae. Species are soft-bodied and dorsoventrally flattened, generally with broad, oval, or elongate bodies and distinctive anterior tentacles. Their coloration varies among species and may include pale, brown, reddish, orange, or contrasting patterned surfaces. Like other polyclads, they possess a muscular pharynx and highly branched digestive system.
Range
Species of Pericelis occur in tropical and subtropical marine waters, particularly throughout the Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific. Species occur along the Pacific coast of Mexico, and Pericelis flatworms can be encountered in the Zihua area.
Habitat
Usually found in shallow coastal waters on rocky and coral reefs, beneath rocks, among algae, and on other hard surfaces. They may also occur around sponges and other reef organisms, where their flattened bodies allow them to move through narrow spaces and remain concealed.
Diet
Pericelis species are predatory and feed on small marine invertebrates and other benthic organisms. The muscular pharynx is used to capture and ingest prey, with digestion taking place through the extensively branched digestive system.
Pericelis Flatworms
Pericelis (Genus)
