Common name: beautiful hypselodoris

General information

The Hypselodoris pulchella, commonly known as the Blue and Yellow Nudibranch, is a strikingly colorful sea slug found in the Indo-Pacific region. This species is part of the Chromodorididae family, which is known for its vibrant and diverse color patterns. Nudibranchs like Hypselodoris pulchella are often sought after by advanced marine aquarium hobbyists for their unique appearance and behavior.

Care

Caring for Hypselodoris pulchella requires a well-established reef aquarium with stable water conditions and low nitrate levels. They are sensitive to changes in water quality, so regular monitoring is essential. These nudibranchs feed primarily on sponges, so it's important to ensure a continuous food source is available in the aquarium. Due to their specific dietary needs, they are recommended for experienced aquarists.

Reproduction

Hypselodoris pulchella are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay spiral ribbons of eggs on the substrate or aquarium glass. The larvae that hatch are planktonic before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Habitat

This species is typically found in tropical coral reefs and rocky substrates, often at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. They are more commonly observed in the Western Pacific, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific Ocean.