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Additional Photos

side

egg mass
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GALLERY

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Elysia sp. #2

Maximum size: 6 mm.
Identification:
This
is
a
small species with a translucent greenish body densely
flecked in cream.
The parapodia are moderately high with three broad chimneys and the
rhinophores are relatively long. Clustering of the cream flecks forms
irregular bands on the sides of the parapodia. It may be distinguished
from the similar appearing Elysia lobata
by the narrow greenish-maroon submarginal lines on its parapodia and
the
pink patch on top of its head.
Natural history:
Elysia sp. #2 is a moderately
common species found in rocky habitats (particularly back
reef areas) at
depths of
< 1 to 3 m (< 3 to 10 ft). It occurs in protected to moderately
exposed locations. Mature animals are diurnally active and jerk their
parapodia
occasionally while crawling. Its egg mass is yellow and usually
composed of only 1 to 1.5 whorls. A small amount of reticulate, cream
extra-capsular yolk may be closely associated with the eggs.
Distribution:
Maui: widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomic notes:
First
recorded
in
Hawaii from Hekili Point, Maui by CP in Sept. 1990.
Photo: CP: 5
mm: found by PF; Mala Wharf, Maui; May 2, 2006.
Observations and comments:
Note
1: ( )
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