Meeting Abstract
Flabellina is a large and diverse genus of aeolid nudibranchs, containing over 60 recognized species. Several new species of Flabellina have been described in the past decade, and undiscovered diversity likely remains within this group. Several Flabellina species exhibit morphological variability over large geographic ranges and may constitute cryptic species complexes. Using the molecular mitochondrial markers 16S, cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI), and the nuclear marker 28S, we have found preliminary evidence for cryptic species complexes within three widely distributed, morphologically variable taxa. Identification of these potential cryptic species indicates the need for further research into differences in morphology, ecology, and geographic distribution. An improved understanding of species diversity and differences in natural history within Flabellina enables further investigation into their evolutionary history and enhances their usefulness as bioindicators of change in ocean climate and reef health.
