Berthella cf africana (Pruvot-Fol, 1953)

The dark spot in the middle of the dorsum causes this species to resemble Berthella africana, which is known from East Africa and the Canary Islands. Further study is needed to determine if they are actually the same. We have found Berthella cf africana in the Marshalls at Enewetak, Utirik, and Kwajalein Atolls, and in the Hawaiian Islands as well. Similar specimens from Okinawa photographed by Bob Bolland are also figured on the Sea Slug Forum. In the Marshalls, specimens are usually found under rocks on lagoon reefs, pinnacles, or the seaward reef at depths of 2 to 20 meters.

The specimen below is one of the largest found at 55mm long.

Here is a young specimen measuring only 12mm in length. It was found in a Kwajalein Atoll seaward reef ledge at night at a depth of 12m on 18 October 2008.

Created 2 February 2007
Updated 30 October 2008