Common name: Diana's Chromodoris

General information

Chromodoris dianae, commonly known as Diana's Chromodoris or the Blue and Black Nudibranch, is a strikingly colorful sea slug belonging to the family Chromodorididae. This species is admired for its vibrant blue body with black and yellow lines and a frilly mantle edge, making it a visually appealing addition to any reef aquarium.

Care

Diana's Chromodoris is a peaceful invertebrate that requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing on surface biofilm and microorganisms. They are sensitive to water quality, so stable conditions and excellent filtration are crucial. This nudibranch feeds primarily on sponges, so it's important to ensure a continuous food source or provide supplemental feeding with appropriate sponge-based diets.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Chromodoris dianae is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay spiral ribbons of eggs, which develop into free-swimming larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into the adult form. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to their specific dietary requirements.

Habitat

Chromodoris dianae is found in the tropical Western Pacific, particularly around the Philippines and Indonesia. They inhabit coral reefs and are often seen at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. In the aquarium, they require similar reef-like conditions with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment.