Thuridilla hopei (Vérany, 1853)

Description

A small sacoglossan reaching about 20 mm in length. The body is elongate and cylindrical, with a pair of laterally extended parapodia. The background colour is dark brown to bluish, and the parapodial margins are edged with a vivid orange band. Fine white, yellow and pale-blue lines and markings adorn the outer surfaces of the parapodia and the head, while the inner surface of the parapodia shines iridescent blue. Colour patterns vary considerably between individuals and localities.

Distribution

Originally described from waters off Nice, France. Endemic to the Mediterranean Sea.

Etymology

The specific epithet hopei honours the British naturalist Frederick William Hope.

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References

• Actaeon hopei n. sp., Vérany J.B. (1853). Catalogue des Mollusques cephalopodes, pteropodes, Gasteropodes nudibranches, etc.... des environs de Nice. Journal de Conchyliologie. 4(1): 375-392.