Mystery slug found in Trinidad

May 13, 2003
From: Danielle

A small purplish black sea slug was found on the north coast of Trinidad (in the Caribbean). The authorities can't identify it, and it's the first time it has appeared here.... about 5 have been found in the past week. I found one today... it's about the size of a fist, curled up in a ball, but when in water it unfurls and has 'winglike' fins like a small sting ray. Its underside is like a snail's, and its mouth is like a suction thingy. Its body seems muscular and it contracts and pulses and so on. It is said to secrete a purple substance. With its mouth and head (or so it seems) it clings to the side and corners of the aquarium, and keeps its head above water. I would appreciate assistance in identifying this species. Enclosed is the article.
Danielle

cool_likeafridge@msn.com

Dear Danielle
A swimming black slug, with winglike fins and producing purple ink, can only be a slug we call a Sea Hare. The species is probably Aplysia morio although there is another swimming species in the Caribbean, Aplysia brasiliana, but that is usually a browner colour. Have a look at the other messages below yours on the A. morio from more information on this species. Also have a look at the Sea Hares Page for more information on these animals. Many of them produce the Purple Ink you describe. They usually produce it when they are stressed, but we have no idea what it is for.
Best wishes,
Bill Rudman

Rudman, W.B., 2003 (May 13). Comment on Mystery slug found in Trinidad by Danielle. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/9937

Factsheet

Aplysia morio

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