Phyllidiella Pustulosa

Phyllidiella pustulosa, commonly referred to as the pustulose wart slug, pimpled phyllidiella, or pustulose phyllidiella, is a species of dorid nudibranch belonging to the family Phyllidiidae.

Originally described from specimens collected in Timor, this species is among the most frequently encountered nudibranchs throughout the tropical Indo-West Pacific. Recent studies employing DNA sequencing of the CO1 gene have indicated that Phyllidiella pustulosa represents a species complex.

Throughout its development, this nudibranch exhibits notable morphological changes. However, three median clusters of typically pink tubercles remain consistent, albeit amalgamated in juvenile specimens and separated in larger individuals. The coloration of these tubercles can vary from pink to green to white. Variations in the intensity of the pink coloration and green-grey hues may be associated with dietary factors and the duration since the last feeding. Additional distinguishing characteristics include a pale pink edge on the mantle, broad triangular oral tentacles with black tips, and the rhinophoral clavus, which possesses 22 to 26 lamellae in specimens exceeding 35 mm in length.