During the past century eight species of sea hares of the genus Aplysia were recorded from Peru. However, there is disagreement about how many of these species are valid and their taxonomy needs to be critically evaluated. Based on detailed morphological examinations, this study presents a redescription of Aplysia nigra d’Orbigny, 1837 and Aplysia inca d’Orbigny, 1837, the most common species of Aplysia along the Peruvian coast. They showed consistent morphological differences, mainly in the foot, parapodia development, opaline gland, jaws, radular teeth and penial morphology. Anatomical data for both species are provided for the first time, as well as a comparison with other species of Aplysia reported for the Eastern Pacific. The records of Aplysia keraudreni Rang, 1828, Aplysia dactylomela Rang, 1828 and Aplysia juliana Quoy & Gaimard, 1832 for Peruvian waters are likely erroneous and need to be verified based on collected specimens. |
