Common name: Michael's Nudibranch

General information

Chromodoris michaeli, commonly known as Michael's 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 stripes and a frilly mantle edge that adds to its ornamental appeal. Nudibranchs like C. michaeli are known for their intricate patterns and are a favorite among underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts.

Care

Caring for Michael's Nudibranch in a reef aquarium requires attention to water quality and diet. They are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so maintaining pristine water conditions is crucial. They feed primarily on specific sponges, so it's important to ensure these food sources are available in the aquarium or to provide a suitable substitute diet.

Reproduction

Nudibranchs, including C. michaeli, are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay ribbons of eggs, which hatch into free-swimming larvae. These larvae eventually settle and metamorphose into the adult form. Reproduction in captivity is possible but can be challenging due to the specific dietary needs of the larvae.

Habitat

Chromodoris michaeli is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, typically on coral reefs or rocky substrates where its sponge prey is abundant. They are usually observed at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.

While they do not have a symbiotic relationship as defined for this context, their specialized feeding habits and contribution to the biodiversity of the reef ecosystem make them an interesting species for advanced aquarists.