Common name: Reliable Goniobranchus

General information

Goniobranchus fidelis, commonly known as the Faithful Sea Slug or Red-spotted Nudibranch, is a vibrant and colorful addition to the marine aquarium. This species is part of the Nudibranchia order, which are soft-bodied, marine gastropod mollusks. Nudibranchs are known for their extraordinary colors and striking forms, and G. fidelis is no exception with its bright red spots on a creamy to white body.

Care

Goniobranchus fidelis requires a specialized aquarium setup due to its specific dietary needs. They feed exclusively on certain sponges, so it's crucial to ensure these food sources are available in the aquarium. The tank should also have plenty of live rock and a stable environment with excellent water quality to mimic their natural reef habitat.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, G. fidelis is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can self-fertilize or mate with another individual. After mating, they lay spiral ribbons of eggs on the substrate or aquarium glass. The larvae are planktonic before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Habitat

Goniobranchus fidelis is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to South Africa and east to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and are often seen crawling on or near their sponge prey at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.