Goniobranchus reticulatus
Reticulated goniobranchus
Philippines · Indo Pacific - South China Sea
- Size
- 30–50 mm · max 60 mm
- Native range
- Tropical and subtropical Indo-West Pacific, including central Japan and the Ryukyus; type locality Tonga.
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Description
A large, common chromodorid of tropical and subtropical reefs. It is notable for autotomising (shedding) its penis after mating and regenerating a functional one within about 24 hours (Sekizawa et al. 2013).
Share link: https://seaslugs.org.il/species/goniobranchus-reticulatus-phillipines-indo-pacific-south-china-sea/
Identification
White mantle densely covered with a fine network of red lines over low rounded tubercles, giving a crepe-like texture; the edge is white, sometimes with a thin yellow line. Rhinophores and gill are white with vermilion-edged lamellae; the rear gill leaves curve toward the anus.
Similar species
Goniobranchus tinctorius has a coarser red network, is smaller and has fewer gill leaves. G. tumuliferus and G. aureopurpureus have red spots rather than a network.
Habitat & diet
Habitat
Coral and rocky reefs and rocky coasts; often seen at 5–15 m.
Food
Like other Goniobranchus, feeds on sponges.