Common name: bohol discodoris

General information

The Philippine Discodoris, scientifically known as Discodoris boholiensis, is a species of sea slug, a dorid nudibranch, which is a group of marine gastropod mollusks. This species is known for its striking appearance, with a body that can exhibit a variety of colors, typically brown, white, and yellow, often with intricate patterns. The texture of its body is also notable, with a soft, velvet-like surface that is covered in small tubercles.

Care

Discodoris boholiensis requires a well-established reef aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock for grazing. They are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and copper-based medications. It's important to provide a diet rich in biofilm and algae, which they naturally feed on. Due to their specific dietary needs, they may not be suitable for every reef tank, especially those without sufficient algal growth.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Discodoris boholiensis is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay spiral ribbons of eggs, which hatch into free-swimming larvae. These larvae will eventually settle onto the substrate and metamorphose into the adult form. In the aquarium, breeding is possible but rearing the larvae can be challenging due to their specific planktonic food requirements.

Habitat

Discodoris boholiensis is typically found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, on coral reefs and rocky substrates. They are benthic creatures, often seen crawling on the substrate or on the surfaces of rocks and corals in search of food. In the wild, they are usually found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters deep.