The Yellow-Spotted Doris, scientifically known as Chromodoris luteorosea, is a vibrant species of dorid nudibranch. These sea slugs are marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the family Chromodorididae. Found in the Mediterranean Sea and along the Atlantic coasts of Europe and Africa, their range extends from the Bay of Biscay to Cape Verde and as far west as the Azores.
Identifying the Yellow-Spotted Doris is relatively straightforward due to its distinctive coloration. The nudibranch features a pale purple mantle edged with a bright yellow line. The body is adorned with intense yellow or whitish circular or oval spots, irregularly distributed and surrounded by a white ring. The rhinophores, which measure about 6 mm in length and have 15 lamellae at the top, are violet or reddish with white pigmentation. The gills, located at the back and encircling the anus, consist of nine leafy branches of the same color as the rhinophores.
Chromodoris luteorosea can grow up to 55 mm in length. Its pale purple mantle with bright yellow edging and distinct yellow or whitish spots make it easily recognizable. The species has violet or reddish rhinophores with white pigmentation and nine leafy gill branches of similar coloration. These features, combined with its striking coloration, make the Yellow-Spotted Doris one of the most eye-catching nudibranchs in its habitat.
The Yellow-Spotted Doris inhabits the sublittoral zone, living on sponges such as Spongionella pulchella or Aplysilla rosea. It is typically found at depths ranging from 5 to 60 meters. These nudibranchs are often observed on their preferred sponge hosts, where they feed and blend in with their surroundings, using their coloration as camouflage.
An interesting fact about the Yellow-Spotted Doris is its association with specific sponges, such as Spongionella pulchella and Aplysilla rosea. This relationship is not merely for feeding but also for camouflage, as the nudibranch’s coloration helps it blend seamlessly with its environment, providing protection from predators.
