Common name: California seahare

General information

The California Sea Hare, scientifically known as Aplysia californica, is a large and fascinating marine gastropod mollusk. This species is well-known for its unique appearance and behavior. It has a soft, rounded body with a mottled brown, green, or red coloration that helps it blend into the algae and seagrasses it inhabits. The 'sea hare' name comes from the ear-like structures on its head, which are actually rhinophores that function as sensory organs.

Care

In the aquarium, California Sea Hares require a large tank with plenty of live rock and a mature system that can provide them with ample algae to graze on. They are sensitive to water quality and require stable conditions with low nitrate levels. It's important to note that they can release a purple ink as a defense mechanism when stressed, which can be harmful to other tank inhabitants if not managed properly.

Reproduction

California Sea Hares are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can form mating chains where one individual acts as a male to the one in front and as a female to the one behind. They lay eggs in long, gelatinous strings that can be seen attached to rocks or the aquarium glass.

Symbiosis

While not known for specific symbiotic relationships like clownfish and anemones, California Sea Hares do play a role in their ecosystem by controlling algae growth. Their grazing helps prevent algal overgrowth on reefs and in seagrass beds.

Habitat

Aplysia californica is native to the Pacific coast of North America, from Northern California to Baja California in Mexico. They are typically found in shallow waters, often in tide pools and rocky or sandy substrates where there is plenty of algae to feed on.