Common name: Aldisa barlettai

General information

Aldisa barlettai is a species of dorid nudibranch, a colorful sea slug found in the marine environment. This species is known for its distinctive appearance, featuring a pattern of bright spots and patches on its dorsal surface, which can vary in color from yellow to orange, often with a contrasting background. The Aldisa genus is recognized for its cryptic lifestyle, often found living on or near their prey, which includes various species of sponges.

Care

Aldisa barlettai requires a specialized aquarium setup that replicates its natural habitat. They are not recommended for beginners due to their specific dietary needs, feeding exclusively on certain types of sponges found in their natural environment. Maintaining a stable and mature reef aquarium with a variety of live sponges is crucial for their survival. Water quality must be high, with stable parameters and low levels of nitrates and phosphates.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Aldisa barlettai is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can engage in reciprocal mating, where both individuals exchange sperm to fertilize their eggs. The eggs are laid in ribbon-like masses and undergo direct development, meaning the larvae emerge as miniature adults, bypassing a planktonic stage.

Symbiosis

Aldisa barlettai does not engage in the more commonly known forms of symbiosis like those seen in clownfish or cleaner shrimp. However, its cryptic nature and reliance on sponges for both food and habitat can be considered a form of commensalism, where the nudibranch benefits without significantly harming the sponge.

Habitat

This nudibranch is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky substrates. They are often associated with their sponge prey, which they rely on for sustenance and camouflage. The depth range for Aldisa barlettai is not well documented, but nudibranchs in general can be found from shallow waters to deeper reef slopes.