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GALLERY

 
Tenellia
sp. #11
 
Tenellia sp. #11
Maximum size:  7 mm.

Identification:  This aeolid has a translucent-white to bluish-white body with opaque white covering the head and notum. The cerata lay flat against the notum and are pale yellow or white shading to translucent tips. The rhinophores are translucent with minute red and white flecks and a subapical orange band. The cephalic tentacles are flecked with orange and there is a diffuse pink patch on the side of the head. The posterior portion of the notum has a violet or pink band. The sides of the foot are pustulate.

Natural history:  Tenellia sp. #11 is a moderately common species that has been found in moderately exposed to highly exposed rocky areas at depths of 1.5-19 m (5-62 ft). It lays a white egg mass of about one whorl and feeds on the solitary hydroid, Corymorpha cf. tomoensis. (Note 1)
.
Distribution:  Big Island, Maui, Oahu and Kauai: widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific.

Taxonomic notes:  It was first recorded in Hawaii off Makena, Maui by PF on Feb. 13, 1995 and was formerly placed in the genus Cuthona.

Photo:  CP: 4.5 mm: Black Rock, Maui; May 4, 2006.

Observations and comments:

Note 1:  Hydroid ID by Joe Rowlett.
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