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texture
 

branchia
 

rhinophores
 


papillae extended
 


young, about 10 mm
 


young, 16 mm
 


resting posture

 



 
Sclerodoris
sp. #2

 
Sclerodoris sp. #2
Maximum size:  70 mm (Kay, 1979).

Identification:  This is a dusky yellow dorid with broad depressions on its notum containing variable amounts of dark pigment. The ridges between the depressions are flattened and decorated with small tubercles, contractile papillae and secondary depressions. With growth, the ridges become more prominent and more dark pigment develops in the depressions.

Natural history:  Sclerodoris sp. #2 is a rare nocturnal species known from only a few animals. It shelters under rocks or in crevices during the day. It has been found in moderately exposed to exposed locations from 1.5-19 m (5-63 ft).

Distribution:  Big Island, Maui and Oahu: also known from Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

Taxonomic notes:  The first Sclerodoris sp. in Kay, 1979 appears to be this species. It was first reported in Hawaii from Ala Moana, Oahu in April 1962 (Kay & Young, 1969--as Halgerda apiculata). Some of the animals illustrated as Sclerodoris apiculata (Alder & Hancock, 1864) on the Sea Slug Forum are also probably this species (the two are treated as distinct in Gosliner, et. al. 2018 with "Sclerodoris sp. 2" being this one).

Photo:  Scott Johnson: about 50 mm: Ewa, Oahu; Dec. 12, 1985.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  ( )
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