Common name: Giant hypselodoris

General information

The Hypselodoris apolegma, commonly known as the Purple-Edged Ceratosoma or Purple-Edged Nudibranch, is a strikingly colorful sea slug found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. This species is part of the diverse family Chromodorididae, which is known for its vibrant and often elaborate color patterns. The Hypselodoris apolegma is particularly admired for its bright purple edges, yellow body, and intricate gill and rhinophore structures.

Care

Hypselodoris apolegma requires a specialized aquarium setup that replicates its natural environment. They are sensitive to water quality and require stable, pristine conditions. A well-established reef tank with plenty of live rock for grazing is essential. They feed primarily on sponges, so it's crucial to ensure a continuous food source, which can be challenging in a home aquarium.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Hypselodoris apolegma is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can engage in reciprocal mating, where both individuals exchange sperm to fertilize their eggs. The eggs are usually laid in a spiral ribbon and will hatch into free-swimming larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Habitat

Hypselodoris apolegma is typically found in the coral reef ecosystems of the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. They prefer shallow waters where they can easily access their primary food source, sponges.