Carminodoris bifurcata is probably more common than it seems, but it is easily overlooked as it closely resembles a sponge or tunicate.  These four animals were all found in a rubble-laden intertidal  surge zone in  Nth Kihei, Maui  during the late fall and early winter months and over a period of a few years.  The lighter animals are younger and much smaller (15 mm and 20 mm) and the older, darker animals were approximately 40 mm.  Though drab-looking at first glance, they have beautiful round papillae, usually a markedly darker line through the centre of the notum  and a lovely multicoloured branchia.   Sea Slugs of Hawaii for more (and better) photos.

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