Vallicula multiformis

Ctenophores

Vallicula multiformis is a benthic Ctenophore which creeps and glides on surfaces and vegetation, similar to a flatworm. It was first described from mangroves near Kingston, Jamaica and is presumed to be native to the tropical-subtropical Western Atlantic. It has been introduced and is established in Hawaii and Madeira. It was also found in San Diego, California in 1997, but has not been collected since. It can be found on mangroves, rocks, seaweeds, piers, docks, and floats. No impacts have been reported for this species.

*Beyond its native range, this species is not currently established in North America.