OKINAWAN
OPISTHOBRANCH OF THE WEEK

Opisthobranch of the Week Data

Taxonomy:

        Sagaminopteron ornatum should be considered uncommon on Okinawa. I have collected fifteen individuals and have seen, and in some instances photographed, but not collected, at least triple that number. All collected specimens were found at either Horseshoe Cliffs, or Seragaki in much the same habitat (mixed live/dead stony coral reef near the reef edge). These animals are occasionally found actively swimming in the plankton by flapping their wing-like parapodia.

        Although the brilliant purple pigmentation of this strikingly beautiful cephalaspid is a strong advertisement to its presence, its diminutive size probably prevents most divers from seeing this delightful little animal.