2026 · Photo: Boaz Liebes
Coryphellina iurmanovi
Philippines · Indo Pacific - South China Sea
- Size
- 9–15 mm
- Depth
- 10–15 m
- Native range
- Described from Vietnam; possibly more widespread in the Indo-West Pacific.
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Description
A small aeolid nudibranch described in 2025 from Nha Trang Bay, Vietnam, as part of the pseudocryptic Coryphellina rubrolineata species complex. Members of this complex look nearly identical, so reliable identification usually requires DNA barcoding.
Share link: https://seaslugs.org.il/species/coryphellina-iurmanovi-phillipines-indo-pacific-south-china-sea/
Identification
Narrow, opaque whitish-grey to yellowish body with orange patches between the ceratal clusters and a thin, nearly continuous lilac line along the midline of the back. Finger-shaped cerata with pale reddish-orange digestive gland and indistinct reddish-orange rings below the tips. Rhinophores about 1.5 times shorter than the oral tentacles; lilac on the front corners of the foot.
Similar species
Coryphellina lotos, C. pseudolotos and C. rubrolineata are externally very similar; C. iurmanovi's opaque, orange-patched body and thin lilac midline are helpful hints, but DNA is needed for certainty.
Habitat & diet
Habitat
Shallow rocky reefs; type material from 10–15 m.
Food
Not documented; like other Coryphellina, presumably feeds on hydroids.