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Okenia
sp. #1

 
Okenia sp. #1
Maximum size:  4 mm (Midway animals to 10 mm).

Identification:  This is a cream dorid with a notum variably streaked with opaque white. Some animals have brick-red blotches on the notum and, rarely, it may have a yellow tinge. (Note 1) It has a pair of elongate extra-branchial processes and a series of short thorn-like processes lining the notum. The latter vary considerably in length. The rhinophores are simple and both the processes and rhinophores are variably tipped with orange.

Natural history:  Okenia sp. #1 is a moderately common species found in moderately exposed to exposed rocky habitats and Halimeda kanaloana beds at depths of 4-11 m (13-36 ft). One animal laid a crescent-shaped, white egg mass measuring 1.4 mm by 0.5 mm.

Distribution:  Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai and Midway.

Taxonomic notes:  It was first recorded in Hawaii from Midway Atoll by Terry Gosliner and PF in June, 1993.

Photo:  CP: 3 mm: Ulua Beach, Maui; Nov. 26, 2004.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  Perhaps, the tint in the yellow and/or blotchy animals is due to variations in diet?
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