Common name: Marie's Mexichromis

General information

Mexichromis mariei, commonly known as Marie's Mexichromis, is a vibrant and colorful species of nudibranch, a type of sea slug. This species is part of the Chromodorididae family, which is known for its strikingly beautiful members. Nudibranchs are celebrated for their extraordinary variety of forms and colors, and Mexichromis mariei is no exception with its bright pink to purple body and contrasting yellow or orange gills and rhinophores.

Care

Marie's Mexichromis is a captivating addition to any reef aquarium due to its aesthetic appeal. However, they require specialized care and are best suited for experienced aquarists. These nudibranchs feed exclusively on sponges, so it's essential to ensure a consistent supply of their specific dietary needs. Stable water quality and parameters are crucial for their well-being, as they are sensitive to changes in their environment.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Mexichromis mariei is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They can lay spiral 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 food requirements and the need to replicate their natural lifecycle.

Habitat

Mexichromis mariei is typically found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often at depths where their sponge prey is abundant. In the aquarium, they require a well-established reef environment with plenty of live rock to explore and forage.