Lomanotus Stauberi, a New Dendronotacean Nudibranch from Central Florida (Mollusca: Opisthobranchia)

Lomanotus stauberi, a new species of dendronotacean nudibranch, was discovered at Sebastian Inlet, Florida. The new species is the first record of the genus from the north-western Atlantic Ocean. The ecology of the new species is briefly described, and the validity of previously described Lomanotus species is discussed. Comparison of available characteristics suggests that six valid species may be recognized: L. genei, flavidus, marmoratus, phiops, stauberi, and vermiformis.

Lomanotus stauberi is limited to feeding on Lytocarpus sp. On the basis of available data, all species of Lomanotus are restricted to feeding on Plumulariidae.