Mexichromis festiva from Port Stephens, eastn Australia

August 12, 2003
From: Leanne & David Atkinson

Dear Bill,
Over the past 2 summer seasons, 2001-2002 and 2002-2003 we have been finding what we think are Mexichromis festiva at Fly Point, Port Stephens, New South Wales. They are in quite shallow water usually 8m or less, during the day, on the high tide. there has been a slight colour difference from purplish spots rhinophores and gill markings to more of a red. I don't think this is generated by the photography since we take macro shots on the same setting and these slugs are usually around 5 to 8mm. We have also found what we think might be a "one spot " colour variation. What do you think?

Thanks for your help,
Leanne & David Atkinson

atk@hunterlink.net.au

Atkinson, L. & D., 2003 (Aug 12) Mexichromis festiva from Port Stephens, eastn Australia. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/9907

Thanks Leanne & David,
The suggestion that the purple colour can change to wine red is quite interesting. I had initially thought that Mexichromis festiva, which seems to be restricted to eastern Australia had 'wine red' spots, while the more tropical species Mexichromis mariei had purple spots. However the photos we now have on the Forum of these two species, and related species, suggest that the colour may be variable. It would certainly be interesting if we could show the colour can actually change in one individual. I agree your 'one spot' animal is this species
Best wishes,
Bill Rudman

Rudman, W.B., 2003 (Aug 12). Comment on Mexichromis festiva from Port Stephens, eastn Australia by Leanne & David Atkinson. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/9907

Factsheet

Mexichromis festiva

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