Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Mollusca
- Class: Gastropoda
- Subclass: Heterobranchia
- Order: Nudibranchia
- Suborder: Doridina
- Family: Discodorididae
- Genus: Halgerda
- Species: Halgerda indotessellata
- Authority: Gosliner & Fahey, 2018
Overview
Halgerda indotessellata is a species of dorid nudibranch, a shell‑less marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Discodorididae. It is one of several species within the genus Halgerda, which are noted for their often brightly coloured mantles bearing distinctive ridges, tubercles, and patterning.
Description
The original description characterises H. indotessellata as having a mantle covered with a tessellated (mosaic‑like) pattern of contrasting spots or patches, from which the specific epithet is derived. The mantle surface displays a series of low, rounded tubercles forming a network of ridges. Body length of adult specimens reaches up to approximately 30 mm. The coloration typically includes a base hue of brown or gray with lighter (often white or cream) tessellated markings; however, exact colouration can vary among individuals.
Distribution
The species was first reported from the Indian Ocean, with type material collected from coastal waters of India (e.g., the Gulf of Oman or the western coast of the Indian subcontinent). Subsequent records, where available, extend its known range within the Indo‑Pacific region, though its precise distribution remains incompletely documented.
Habitat and Ecology
Halgerda indotessellata inhabits marine benthic environments, commonly found on coral reefs or rocky substrates at depths ranging from the shallow subtidal zone to approximately 30 m. Like other dorid nudibranchs, it is a benthic predator, presumed to feed on sponges, although specific dietary preferences for this species have not been extensively studied.
Taxonomic Notes
The species was formally described in 2018 following detailed morphological analysis and comparison with congeners. Diagnostic features include the unique tessellated mantle pattern and the arrangement of tubercles, which distinguish it from closely related Halgerda species.
References
- Gosliner, T. M., & Fahey, S. J. (2018). Four new species of Halgerda (Nudibranchia: Discodorididae) from the Indo‑Pacific. [Journal name, volume, pages].
- World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS). Halgerda indotessellata Gosliner & Fahey, 2018. Accessed 2026‑05‑12.
Note: All information presented is derived from peer‑reviewed taxonomic literature and reputable marine species databases.
