A new flatworm (Platyhelminthes: Polycladida) which mimics a Phyllidiid Nudibranch (Mollusca, Nudibranchia) |
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| Authors: | L. J. NEWMAN L. R. G. CANNON D. J. BRUNCKHORST |
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| Affiliation: | Worms, Queensland Museum, P.O. Box 3300, South Brisbane, Old. Australia 4101;Australian National Parks &Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 636, Canberra, ACT. Australia 2601 |
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| Abstract: | A new species of polyclad flatworm, Pseudoceros imitatus sp. nov. (Polycladida, Pseudocerotidae), is described from Papua New Guinea and recorded from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. This polyclad resembles the phyllidiid nudibranch Phyllidiella pustulosa (Cuvier) (Nudibranchia, Phyllidiiae) in size and colour pattern. It is proposed that P. imitatus is a mimic of the aposematic nudibranch in order to avoid predation by reef fish. Mimicry between polyclad flatworms and opisthobranch molluscs is reviewed. |
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| Keywords: | Pseudocerotidae Pseudoceros nudibranch Phyllidiidae aposematic mimicry |
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