Clione antarctica is an important component of polar ecosystems. It preys upon Limacina antarctica[1] It is itself eaten by the medusaDiplulmaris antarctica.[4]C. antarctica has a large lipid storage capacity: up to 5% of its wet mass.[5] It is able to survive without food for about six months by utilizing these lipid storage reserves.[5]Clione antarctica lays eggs in the spring.[5]
This species defends itself from predators by synthesizing an ichthyodeterrent (a chemical that deters fishes); this is a previously unknown molecule called pteroenone.[6] The sea angel acts as a "guest" for the hyperiidamphipodHyperiella dilatata, which takes advantage of the protection provided by the gastropod's icthyodeterrent.[6]
Bryan P. J., Yoshida W. Y., McClintock J. B. & Baker B. J. (1995). "Ecological role for pteroenone, a novel antifeedant from the conspicuous antarctic pteropod Clione antarctica (Gymnosomata: Gastropoda)". Marine Biology122: 271-277.
Gilmer R. W. & Lalli C. M. (1990). "Bipolar variation in Clione, a gymnosomatous pteropod". Am. Malacol. Union Bull.8(1): 67-75.
