About Goniobranchus heatherae (Gosliner, 1994)
This species, commonly called the red-spotted nudibranch, is a smooth-skinned dorid nudibranch with a white body. It has red spots distributed variably across its body, and an opaque white band that encircles its notum. A yellowish line along the edge of the notum may also be present; this feature is more frequently seen in specimens from the eastern portion of the species' distribution. It has eight gills arranged around its anus, and its rhinophores are perfoliate. This nudibranch can grow up to 50 millimeters in total length. To date, this species has only been found along the southern African coast, ranging from the Cape Peninsula to Port Elizabeth. It occurs subtidally down to a depth of 30 meters, and it is thought to be endemic to this region. In terms of ecology, Goniobranchus heatherae feeds on sponges.
