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lightly blotched
 

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Geitodoris
sp. #1

 
Geitodoris sp. #1
Maximum size:  about 32 mm.

Identification:  This is a flat species with low, even papillae. The notum is light to dusky yellow, variably blotched with cream and brown. The rhinophores are cream flecked with brown and frosted with white. The branchia are yellow variably flecked with reddish brown and white. (Note 1)

Natural history:  We haven't seen Geitodoris sp. #1 on Maui but Scott Johnson reports it as fairly common at 10-15 m (33-49 ft) at a highly exposed rocky site on Oahu. It feeds on the black sponge, Tethya (Bertsch and Johnson, 1981).

Distribution:  Big Island, Oahu and Kauai.

Taxonomic notes:  This is the species listed as "yellow dorid" on page 42 in Bertsch and Johnson, 1981. It was first recorded in Hawaii at Pupukea, Oahu by Scott Johnson on July 9, 1979.

Photo:  Scott Johnson: about 32 mm: heavily blotched: Pupukea, Oahu; Aug. 19, 1985.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  There is some possibility that lightly blotched, yellow animals might be an additional species. However, the overall form as well as the structure of the branchia, rhinophores and papillae appear to support lumping. More photos of the yellow form can be seen at Scott Johnson's site.
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