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Additional Photos
complex lines
mating
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GALLERY
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Ceratosoma sp. #2
Maximum size: 8 mm (Scott
Johnson).
Identification:
This
small
species is translucent pinkish-white with an irregular
network of pale yellow lines in the center of the notum. These lines
may be "organized" into a more prominent, elongate yellow loop in some
animals. The mantle margin is white, then pale yellow toward the edge.
A few
widely-spaced pink spots may be present in or near the
white marginal band.
The posterior portion of the foot is pale yellow. The rhinophores and
gills are translucent-gray.
Natural history:
Ceratosoma sp. #2
is a moderately rare species that may be found on rocky bottoms from
6-24 m (20-80 ft). A 7 mm animal laid a white egg mass of 1 1/4 whorls
that was
3 mm in diameter.
Distribution:
Maui, Lanai, Oahu and French Frigate Shoals: widely distributed in the
Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomic notes:
Although
this
species is unlike most Ceratosoma
spp in size and form, Terry Gosliner (pers. com) reports that both DNA
and morphology support placing it in the genus. It was first recorded
in Hawaii at Makua, Oahu by Scott Johnson on May 8, 1978.
Photo: PF: 4
mm: Pu‘u ola‘i, Maui; May 1, 1990.
Observations and comments:
Note
1: ( )
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