Distribution: Relatively uncommon in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Recorded from New Caledonia and South East Asia. In Australia records from Shark Bay in Western Australia, Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Ecological Notes: Found on shallower rocky and coral reef. Feeds on sponges. Depth to at least 18 m.

Additional Notes: This dorid is characterised by fine purple/blue irregular stripes and the distinctive blue “V” and edging to the foot. The gills are white with orange edging, the rhinophores have a clear translucent base with red or orange clubs and there is a yellow band inside the blue mantle border. Juvenile in top photograph around 8 mm long. Grows to 40 mm, usually smaller.

References: Gary Cobb, David Mullins, Nudibranchs Encyclopedia, 2nd Edition, 2015. Publishers Thomas Slone, Masalai Press and Tim Hochgrebe, Underwater Australasia. p.147.

Australian Museum, Sea Slug Forum. http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/hypsmari. Accessed 24/09/2018.