Common name: Marten's Berthella

General information

Berthella martensi, commonly known as the Pleurobranch, is a species of sea slug, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Pleurobranchidae. This species is not only fascinating due to its unique appearance, but also because it is a nudibranch, which are known for their often extraordinary colors and forms. Berthella martensi is characterized by its smooth, oval body and mottled coloration, which can range from white to yellow with black spots or blotches.

Care

In the aquarium, Berthella martensi requires a well-established system with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are sensitive to water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial. They feed on a variety of sponges, so it's important to ensure that their dietary needs can be met in a captive environment. Due to their specific feeding habits, they may not be suitable for all reef aquariums.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Berthella martensi is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay ribbons of eggs, which will develop into free-swimming larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Habitat

Berthella martensi is found in tropical and subtropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. They are often observed on or near coral reefs, where they blend in with their surroundings to avoid predators. In the wild, they can be found at various depths, often on hard substrates where sponges, their primary food source, are abundant.