found in deep-sea environments, typically on the ocean floor
Distribution
primarily found in the waters around Japan
Conservation status
Data Deficient
Edibility
Not used as food. Do not consume or collect it; nudibranchs may contain defensive chemicals derived from their prey.
Danger level
Harmless
Usual observation depth
1–15 m
Behaviour
Solitary nudibranch with slow movement. It is generally active on exposed substrate while searching for food; it can be observed both day and night.
Observation zones
Coral reef, rocky reef, coral rubble, hard substrate covered with sponges and shallow coastal slopes.
Diet
Mainly sponges, as in other species of the genus Jorunna.
Reproduction
Oviparous
Identification marks
Very small nudibranch with an oval body, a velvety-looking, fuzzy mantle covered with caryophyllidia. Often white or cream, with dark brown to black rhinophores and a dark gill plume; coloration may vary.
Similar species
Often confused with other small velvety species of Jorunna and with similarly colored nudibranchs called “sea hares”. A close-up photograph showing the texture of the mantle, the rhinophores, the gills and the locality is generally necessary for reliable identification.
Approach rules
Observe without touching, moving, or collecting the animal. Maintain good buoyancy to avoid any contact with the substrate. Use soft, limited lighting; avoid repeated close-range flashes and never feed it.
Protection
No specific international protection status is known. The species has not been assessed on the IUCN Red List; avoid any collection and protect its reef habitat.
