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Additional Photos
underside
light
young, 4 mm
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GALLERY
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Elysia sp. #4
Maximum size: 14 mm.
Identification:
This is a cryptic species with a translucent cream body tinted brown by
extensive branches of the digestive gland. The parapodia form two or
three narrow chimneys that flare outward sharply near their apexes. The
apexes
of the chimneys are usually margined with bands of minute gray flecks.
The head and parapodia are frosted with iridescent cream flecks that
are irregularly distributed (though densest dorsally). The body and
head are covered with low, scattered papillae.
Natural history:
Elysia sp. #4 is
moderately common. It occurs on
moderately protected to exposed rocky bottoms as well as in Halimeda kanaloana beds in deeper,
sandy
habitats. We've recorded it from depths of < 1 to 12 m (< 3 to 39
ft).
It
appeared to feed on Halimeda
discoidea
and H. kanaloana in the
laboratory but may not retain chloroplasts (based on lack of green
color in most). Mature
animals are nocturnally active and the parapodia are jerked
occasionally while crawling.
Distribution:
Maui and Kauai.
Taxonomic notes:
First recorded in Hawaii from Hekili Point, Maui by CP on Aug. 8, 1991.
Photo: CP:
Whaler's Village, Maui; May 3, 2007.
Observations and comments:
Note
1: ( )
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