Physical Description
The Yellow-spotted Cadlina, scientifically known as Cadlina flavomaculata, exhibits a ground color ranging from very light cream to pale yellow. Its dorsum features small, low tubercles, and a series of 6-10 or more small, lemon yellow dots running longitudinally on either side of the dorsum, from just posterior of the rhinophores to just posterior of the branchial plumes. Rhinophores are brown to almost black, with 8-12 lamellae. Branchial plumes number 10-12, uni- to bipinnate, appearing light cream to yellow. Yellow-spotted Cadlinas typically measure about 15mm in length, although specimens may reach 21mm.
Habitat and Geographical Range
Yellow-spotted Cadlinas inhabit the eastern Pacific coast.
What They Eat and How They Breed
While specific dietary habits and breeding behaviors of Yellow-spotted Cadlinas are not extensively documented, they likely feed on various marine organisms found in their habitat and reproduce through typical nudibranch breeding mechanisms.
Similar Nudibranchs
There are several species of white dorid nudibranchs found in Monterey. For species often mistaken for the yellow-spotted 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.
White Knight Dorid
Discover the elegant White Knight Dorid, a large nudibranch species with a pure white appearance, often exceeding 100mm in length, found along the eastern Pacific coast.
