Common name: purple aeolis

General information

The Spanish Shawl, Flabellina iodinea, is a strikingly colorful nudibranch, a type of sea slug, found in the Eastern Pacific. Its vibrant purple body, orange cerata, and red rhinophores make it a visually appealing species for marine aquarists. Nudibranchs are known for their extraordinary forms and colors, and the Spanish Shawl is no exception, often becoming a centerpiece in a reef tank due to its beauty.

Care

Flabellina iodinea requires a specialized aquarium setup that replicates its natural environment. They are sensitive to water quality and require pristine conditions with stable parameters. A diet of hydroids, their natural prey, is essential for their survival in captivity. Due to their specific dietary needs, they are recommended for experienced aquarists who can ensure a consistent food source.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, the Spanish Shawl is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can self-fertilize or mate with another individual. In captivity, breeding them can be challenging due to their specific larval requirements and the need for a continuous supply of food for the developing larvae.

Habitat

Flabellina iodinea is typically found in the cooler waters of the Eastern Pacific, from Monterey Bay, California, down to Baja California, Mexico. They inhabit rocky substrates and kelp forests where hydroids, their primary food source, are abundant.