Common name: Kanga Hypselodoris
General information
The Kanga Nudibranch, scientifically known as Hypselodoris kanga, is a vibrant and colorful member of the nudibranch family. These sea slugs are known for their striking appearance, with a combination of blue, purple, and yellow hues that can vary between individuals. They are a popular subject for underwater photographers and a fascinating addition to the marine aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 6 cm (2½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Carnivore Feeds on sponges in the wild.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumMollusksMollusca
- ClassSnailsGastropoda
- OrderNudibranchsNudibranchia
- FamilyChromodorid NudibranchsChromodorididae
- GenusHypselodorisHypselodoris
- SpeciesKanga HypselodorisHypselodoris kanga Rudman, 1977
Care
Hypselodoris kanga requires a well-established reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing. They feed primarily on sponges, so it's essential to ensure a sustainable food source is available in the aquarium. Stable water quality and parameters are crucial for their health, as they are sensitive to changes in their environment.
Reproduction
Like many nudibranchs, Hypselodoris kanga is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay ribbons of eggs, which hatch into free-swimming larvae. These larvae eventually settle and metamorphose into the adult form. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to their specific dietary requirements.
Habitat
Hypselodoris kanga is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically on coral reefs or rocky substrates where their sponge prey is abundant. They are benthic creatures, meaning they live and move along the bottom of their marine environment.