Diaphoreolis viridis (Forbes, 1840)

Diaphoreolis viridis

Description: This species is distinguished by its green ceratal contents and splashes of yellow-white pigment. The body is translucent white, often with a faint yellow hue. The cnidosacs at the tips of the cerata are large and conspicuous, off-white in colour. Streaks and spots of white pigment extend along the dorsal surfaces of the cerata. The brown jaws are clearly visible through the head in front of the rhinophores. Grows to about 15 mm in length.

Habitat: Feeds on the hydroids Sertularella spp. especially Sertularella rugosa. Found in shallow exposed and semi-sheltered rocky areas.

Distribution: More common in the north of the British Isles, though records exist from the Atlantic coast of France. Specimens from Iceland may grow larger and develop more dense white pigmentation dorsally.

Similar Species: Trinchesia caerulea is similar in anatomy, both internally and externally, but easily distinguished by coloration.

Key Identification Features:

• Green ceratal contents.
• Yellow-white pigment on dorsal surfaces of cerata.

Distribution Map: NBN map : National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

WoRMS: Species record : World Register of Marine Species.

iNaturalist: Species account : iNaturalist World Species Observations database