2026 · Photo: Boaz Liebes
Phyllidiopsis striata
Striped phyllidopsis
Philippines · Indo Pacific - South China Sea
- Size
- 12–20 mm
- Native range
- Indo-West Pacific, from Mauritius to Thailand and the western Pacific.
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Description
A small, strongly flattened phyllidiid nudibranch described by Bergh in 1889 from Mauritius. The name means 'striped', after the white stripes on its back. Like other phyllidiids it feeds on sponges.
Share link: https://seaslugs.org.il/species/phyllidiopsis-striata-phillipines-indo-pacific-south-china-sea/
Identification
Velvety black back almost overwhelmed by white: three white longitudinal bands run along the centre and a white band with elongate white islets borders the mantle. The anal pore opens through the median band near the rear. Gill leaves and foot edge greyish white.
Similar species
Phyllidiopsis annae has a similar ridged pattern but its ridges and mantle margin are blue rather than white.
Habitat & diet
Habitat
Rocky and coral reefs; recorded around 15 m.
Food
Like other phyllidiids, feeds on sponges.
