Common name: Variable Chelidonura

General information

Chelidonura varians, commonly known as the Blue Velvet Slug or Blue Velvet Headshield Slug, is a striking species of sea slug within the cephalaspidean order. This species is known for its vibrant blue to black coloration with contrasting yellow spots or lines, which makes it a visually appealing addition to any reef aquarium. It belongs to the family Aglajidae, which comprises predatory sea slugs.

Care

The Blue Velvet Slug is a small and delicate creature, typically reaching up to 5 centimeters in length. It requires a well-established aquarium with a mature sand bed and live rock to thrive. This species is known for its beneficial role in controlling flatworm populations, as it preys on these pests. However, care should be taken to ensure that the flatworm population does not diminish to the point where the slug starves. Supplemental feeding with meaty foods may be necessary if flatworms are scarce.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Chelidonura varians involves laying eggs in small clusters on the substrate or aquarium glass. The larvae that hatch are planktonic and can be challenging to rear in captivity. Hobbyists rarely focus on breeding this species due to the difficulty in raising the larvae to adulthood.

Habitat

Chelidonura varians is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits shallow waters, typically on sandy bottoms near coral reefs where it can hunt for flatworms. In the aquarium, it requires similar conditions with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment.