About Berthella ornata (Cheeseman, 1878)
Berthella ornata is a distinctive pleurobranch that can reach a maximum length of 70 mm (2.8 inches). Its dorsal surface has reddish or brownish spots that lie over an opaque background, which can range in color from white to dark red or brown. An internal shell reaching up to 20 mm (0.79 inches) in length is hidden beneath the smooth mantle; the mantle has a white margin, and both the foot and gill are also white. Its rhinophores are brown with white tips. This species moves slowly, feeds on sponges at night, and typically releases a milky fluid when disturbed. During the day, it is most often found hiding under boulders and stones, with its head and rhinophores retracted beneath the mantle. Berthella ornata is endemic to New Zealand, where populations are becoming less common. It occurs from low tide through the sub-littoral fringe, down to a depth of 6 metres.
