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Unidentified Pleurobranchid
#2
 
Unidentified Pleurobranchid #2: shell
Maximum size:  4.3 mm shell length.

Identification:  This species has a flattened, "squared off" shell with a low spire and very fine radiating striae. It resembles mature shells of Berthellina delicata but has a smaller protoconch, lower spire and no brown "staining".

Natural history:  Unidentified pleurobranchid #2 is known only from a handful of shells found in beach drift at moderately exposed to exposed sites.

Distribution:  Maui.

Taxonomic notes:  These shells differ from the shells of other Hawaiian pleurobranchids in their profile, spire height and protoconch size suggesting the presence of one more small shallow water species. (Note 1)

Photo:  CP: composite photo, same shell; 4.3 mm: beach drift; Mokuleia Bay, Maui; fall, 1984.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  These shells could turn out to be from Berthellina sp. #1, "un. sp. #3" or "something else." It will require further work to resolve the issue.
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