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Elysia
sp. #12
 
Elysia sp. #12
Maximum size:  4 mm.

Identification:  This species is translucent cream with white flecks, scattered violet ocelli with orange centers and iridescent orange flecks. Green branches of the digestive gland show through the body wall and the parapodia have two chimneys, the anterior one higher. Branches of the digestive gland are concentrated on the medial faces of the rhinophores and there may be violet pigment on their tips (sometimes asymmetrically expressed). There are faint white scallops on the sides of the parapodia in some animals. The eye spots are better developed than in most Elysia spp, extending downward into the underlying tissue as lozenge-shaped masses.

Natural history:  Elysia sp. #12  is a rare species. The four known animals were found in moderately exposed to exposed rocky habitats at depths of 1-9 m (3-30 ft). When held, they showed unusually strong positive phototaxis.

Distribution:  Maui and Kauai.

Taxonomic notes:  It was first recorded in Hawaii from Hekili Point, Maui by CP on March 30, 2002.

Photo:  CP: 2.8 mm: Honokohau, Maui; Aug. 6, 2002.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  The lozenge-shaped, "three dimensional" eye spots that are partially shaded dorsally by white pigment (in all four animals) hint at a relatively complex use of visual cues by this species. The unusually strong positive phototaxis observed in dishes also supports that suggestion.
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