Phylum: Mollusca

Class: Gastropoda

Subclass: Heterobranchia

Superorder: Opisthobranchia

Order: Nudibranchia

Suborder: Doridina

Family: Polyceridae

Scientific name: Polycera quadrilineata

 

Norwegian: -

(Selva - The Trondheim fjord / 6 meters / 1.15.2010)

Distribution: Observations have been registered along the west coast of Norway as far North as Troms. Often seen grazing on bryozoans living on seaweeds or algae.

Characteristics: The body is white and translucent with yellow or orange spots forming longitudinal rows along the body. The spots are sometimes slightly erected into the shape of small warts. Black spots or speckling can be present. Body lengths of 4,5 cm have been reported. It has 4-6 yellow oral veil processes.

It can be confused with P. faeroensis, but this species usually have six or more oral processes or tentacles, and the yellow spots are fewer or entirely absent. Furthermore it often has a yellow line running along the dorsal side.

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