Intertidal Invertebrates of the Monterey Bay Area, California
Compiled & photographed by Gary McDonald, Long Marine Laboratory, University of California, Santa Cruz
Carmel Pt., Monterey Co., CA; 23 June 2009; 19mm total length.
Description: Body white to cream, usually with small dark brown to black flecks. Densely covered with large, cylindrical tubercles which may be slightly expanded apically, and are arranged in irregular longitudinal rows; they may be somewhat reduced, especially in small individuals. Body firm due to presence of numerous spicules. Rhinophores smooth, usually with small, opaque white flecks. Branchial plumes 3, tripinnate, white to cream.
Size: Typically 15mm in length, but may reach 28mm in length.
Notes: Feeds on white sponges in the genera Leucetta & Leucilla, and also found on Leucosolenia which it may also eat.
Carmel Pt., Monterey Co., CA; 22 Dec 2007; ~10mm total length.
Pigeon Pt., San Mateo Co., CA; 5 July 2008; 11mm total length.
Carmel Pt., Monterey Co., CA; 1 Aug 2008; 9mm total length.
Carmel Point, Monterey Co., CA; 31 July 2007; 9mm total length.
Carmel Pt., Monterey Co., CA; 23 June 2009; 19mm total length.