Berthellina Sp. #1
When I first found these tiny side-gilled sea slugs, I assumed they were both juvenile representatives of the rather common Orange Gumdrop or Berthella delicata (sometimes referred to as Berthella citrina). I took several photos in an attempt to capture the visible eyes and shell only to find out when I processed the images that these animals have distinct, white spots on their mantles that separate them from the delicata. These are a rare find and the only two animals known to be documented on Maui. Found in less than 2 metres of water in Makena area of South Maui. Largest of the two animals was only 10mm. For more information on these beautiful Pleurobranchia, see Sea Slugs of Hawaii.