Physical Description
The White Knight Dorid exhibits a pure white ground color, occasionally with individuals displaying very light dusty yellow or light brownish hues. Its dorsum is adorned with numerous low, rounded tubercles of varying sizes. The species features white to very light dusty yellow rhinophores, typically with 20-24 lamellae. Branchial plumes, numbering seven, are tri- to quadripinnate, finely divided, and appear delicate, ranging from white to very light yellow. Labial tentacles are slightly triangular to digitiform.
Habitat and Geographical Range
This species inhabits the eastern Pacific coast, where it can be found in suitable habitats. Its distribution may vary within this geographical range, depending on factors such as food availability and environmental conditions.
What They Eat and How They Breed
The White Knight Dorid likely feeds on various marine organisms present in its habitat, although specific dietary preferences may vary. Like other nudibranchs, it likely reproduces through mating behavior, with individuals exchanging sperm. After fertilization, females lay eggs, typically in gelatinous masses on suitable substrates.
Similar Nudibranchs
There are several species of white dorid nudibranchs found in Monterey. For species often mistaken for the white knight dorid, check out these links.
Hudson’s Dorid
Explore the unique features of Hudson’s Dorid, a whitish-hued nudibranch adorned with yellow-tipped tubercles, found along the eastern Pacific coast in diverse marine habitats.
Yellow-Edged Cadlina
Explore the captivating features of the Yellow-edged Cadlina, a nudibranch species native to the eastern Pacific coast, showcasing cream-to-yellow hues and distinct tubercle patterns.
San Diego Dorid
The San Diego Dorid has an oval body and varied coloration, often found along the eastern Pacific coast feeding on sponges.
White Berthella
Discover the White Berthella, Berthella californica, along the eastern Pacific coast. Learn about its appearance, habitat, diet, reproduction, and interaction with humans.
Ridge-tailed Dorid
Discover the Ridge-tailed Dorid, a fascinating nudibranch species found along the eastern Pacific coast. Learn about its physical characteristics, habitat, diet, breeding habits, and more.
Yellow-Spotted Cadlina
Discover the mesmerizing features of the Yellow-spotted Cadlina, a nudibranch species native to the eastern Pacific coast, adorned with lemon-yellow dots on a cream-colored backdrop.
