Common name: Bullocks Hypselodoris

General information

The Bullock's Hypselodoris, scientifically known as Hypselodoris bullockii, is a vibrant and colorful nudibranch that is a popular subject for underwater photographers and a fascinating addition to the marine aquarium. This species is known for its striking coloration, typically a combination of pink, purple, or white with a yellow or orange border. Nudibranchs are part of the sea slug family and are known for their extraordinary shapes and colors.

Care

Bullock's Hypselodoris requires a well-established reef aquarium with plenty of live rock and a stable environment. They are sensitive to water quality and require pristine conditions with low nitrate levels. This species is not recommended for beginners due to their specific dietary needs; they feed on certain sponges and may starve if these are not available in the aquarium.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Hypselodoris bullockii is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay ribbons of eggs which develop into free-swimming larvae. In the aquarium, breeding is rare and raising the larvae to adulthood is challenging due to their specific dietary requirements.

Habitat

Bullock's Hypselodoris is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, from Indonesia to the Philippines and north to Japan. They are typically observed on coral reefs or rocky substrates where their food sources, specific sponges, are abundant. They are benthic creatures, meaning they live on the bottom of the sea, and are often found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.