Nissan Repair: unknown part, proffesional, air filter

Question
i found an unusual part on my air inlet, it is right before the air filter and after the actual opening for the intake, its just a black box with no wires, hoses, or sensors. my friend says it "might" be an air restricter and it wont hurt me to take it off but i want to ask a proffesional first.

Answer
Hi Brandon -

It could be your MAP sensor, but because I am not sure of your year, make or model, it cannot be definite. An image of it will help, but I think that is the MAP. This is essential to the operation of the engine, so I would leave it in.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin