Researchers have identified two new species of sea slugs from the Dotidae family, named Doto urak and Doto kwakwak, on the California coast. Measuring less than a quarter of an inch, these translucent creatures serve as indicators of ecosystem health and climate change effects, as highlighted by Terrence Gosliner from the California Academy of Sciences. They also possess unique chemical properties beneficial for pharmaceutical research targeting cancers and HIV. Doto urak features salmon pink cerata while Doto kwakwak showcases yellow-orange spots, both draws from local indigenous languages and heritage.
Nudibranchs, or sea slugs, are indicators of healthy ecosystems and sentinels of telling us about the impacts of climate change, according to Terrence Gosliner.
Doto urak features salmon pink to orange cerata, named for the Ohlone word for salmon, reflecting its indigenous roots in California.
Doto kwakwak, distinguished by its saffron yellowish-orange spots, derives its name from the Kumeyaay term for yellow, highlighting cultural significance.
The two new species, Doto urak and Doto kwakwak, are crucial for biomedical research due to their natural chemicals that contribute to cancer and HIV treatments.
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