Nudibranch - Bizarre Animal #5 (Illus. & PRNMK)

This is the fifth in a series of "bizarre animal" swaps. These will be depicting real animals -- but ones that are almost fantasy in appearance or behavior. I am planning on picking a variety of mammals, insects, reptiles, birds, invetebrates, etc. over the course of this series.

The image size will be a standard ATC. I hope for a lot of participation in this swap. With that in mind you can portray the Nudibranch as either an illustration or via any print-making method.

Nudibranchs are soft-bodied, marine gastropod mollusks which shed their shell after their larval stage. They are noted for their often extraordinary colors and striking forms. The word "nudibranch" comes from the Latin nudus "naked" and the Greek brankhia "gills".

Nudibranchs have a worldwide distribution and live at virtually all depths of salt water, but reach their greatest size and variation in warm, shallow waters. Nudibranchs are carnivorous. Although they are snails they lack a shell as an adult. They are hermaphroditic (they have a set of reproductive organs for both sexes) but they can rarely fertilize themselves.

This group includes some of the most colorful creatures on earth. Because they are lacking a protective shell, nudibranchs have evolved other means of defense – including camouflage, venomous appendages, the ability to release acid from the skin, or being so brightly and shockingly colored that predators avoid them (many predators will avoid “novel” food sources).

Specifics:

•1 ATC for 1 Partner

• Illustrations or print-making method of choice. Originals only please.

•Card backside should include artist's information, title, & date.

•Theme: Nudibranch

•4.9+, no unexplained 3s or 1s

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.