OKINAWA SLUG SITE

Velella velella Linnaeus, 1758 (TL ca. 50mm)

        A moderately large individual found on the wrack line of a sandy Okinawan beach. The common name, By-the-wind Sailor, has reference to these small floating hydroids being blown by prevailing winds via the small vertical translucent "sail" on the upper portion of the animal's body.

Taxonomy:

NOTE: This page in re presentation with Opisthobranch of the Week, Fiona pinnata.
Copyright © 1999 Robert F. Bolland
Digitally manipulated photo