taxon_kampto

Ampleximordax ptyctophyllus

“Folding-leafed biting embrace”

Kingdom
Microsynthera
Phylum
Plasticae
Class
Occlupanida
Order
Kirigami
Family
Odontotrochidae
Genus
Ampleximordax
Species
ptyctophyllus
External morphology

Flexible body, dorsally protruding tubercles and lateral fenestra. Size 32 mm X 24 mm

While there have been many sightings and rumors of this incredible species, it was not until a traveler from Japan gave this stunning specimen to occlupanid collector M. Mostafavinassab, who instantly recognized its importance to science, and generously donated it to HORG.  Though there is scant data as to its habitat or host object, it is presumed that Ampleximordax ptyctophyllus shares a similar biome to that of its cousin, the Kamptoconidid Nectofocales baldwina. It is hoped that further knowledge of this striking occlupanid will soon come to light. Like others of the Kirigami, A. ptyctophyllus can fold its body around its many-toothed oral groove, locking its outer arms as well as its tubercles to create a nearly-unbreakable ring of tenacity. A report has recently come to light of an A. ptyctophyllus found clinging to a bag of mandarin oranges in the Fukuoka region.