Chromodoris loringi from Sydney

Dear Des,
This is Chromodoris loringi. It is very similar in colour to Chromodoris woodwardae and the common Hypselodoris bennetti but there are some quite good distinguishing features, unfortunately not too clear in your photo. Would I be right in thinking it is nestling in a deep reddish purple sponge?

In Hypselodoris bennetti the background colour is blue, not pink or reddish as in the other two species and the yellow border goes all the way around the mantle. The white gills and rhinophores are lined with red. In Chromodoris loringi the yellow border does not continue around the front of the mantle, the rhinophores are a translucent yellowish colour and the white gills are lined with reddish-purple. In Chromodoris woodwardae the gills and rhinophores are a translucent white colour, and the yellow border goes all around the mantle. There are other colour differences but they are often subtle so it is best to stick to these ones.

I hope that helps. Any photos of it nestling on possible food sponges, or with egg masses would be interesting to see as it would help us to build up information on the basic biology of these animals.

Best wishes,
Bill Rudman.