Glossodoris rufomarginata (Bergh, 1890)
Family Chromodorididae

These are among the most frequently seen nudibranchs in Hawai`i. Clustering in small groups under ledges or on vertical faces, they feed on a common gray sponge (Cacospongia sp.). Their white egg coils often lie nearby. The tan dorsal surface is finely speckled with orange-brown. It is surrounded by a conspicuous white margin that in turn has a scarcely visible orange-brown edge. (In some Indo-Pacific localities this edge is reddish and prominent, giving the species its scientific name, "red margin.") The gills and rhinophores are brown and white. Previous publications on Hawaiian nudibranchs have identified this species as G. youngbleuthi, Chromodoris youngbleuthi or Chromolaichma youngbleuthi, names now regarded as synonyms. To about 1 in., but usually half that size. Indo-Pacific.

Photo: Pupukea, O`ahu. 30 ft.

Webmasters Note: For a previous posting of this animal as the Branch of the Week, see Glossodoris rufomarginata .

John P. Hoover lives in Honolulu. He has published two books on marine life of the Hawaiian Islands. His third (pictured at left), a field guide to the marine invertebrates of the Hawaii, will be available approximately May 1999. With over 600 photographs, it will cover 500 species, including 66 of Hawaii's most colorful and interesting opisthobranchs. Hawaii's Fishes, a Guide for Snorkelers, Divers and Aquarists Mutual Publishing, 1993 Hawaii's Underwater Paradise, Mutual Publishing, 1997 Hawaii's Sea Creatures, a guide to Hawaii's Marine Invertebrates. Mutual Publishing, 1999. John's books are available through Sea Challengers ! Send John E-Mail at hoover@hml.org

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