Common name: Phyllidia babai

General information

Phyllidia babai, commonly known as Babai's Phyllidiella, is a species of colorful sea slug, a dorid nudibranch, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Phyllidiidae. This species is known for its striking appearance, featuring a vibrant pattern of blue and black ridges on its dorsum, interspersed with yellow or orange tubercles. The contrasting colors serve as a warning to potential predators about its toxic nature, as Phyllidia babai contains toxic compounds derived from its diet.

Care

Babai's Phyllidiella is not commonly kept in home aquariums due to its specialized dietary requirements and potential toxicity. In the wild, it feeds on sponges, which it derives toxic compounds from. If a hobbyist wishes to keep this nudibranch, they must ensure a supply of appropriate sponge species that the nudibranch can feed on. The aquarium should also have a well-established live rock setup to mimic its natural habitat and provide hiding places.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Phyllidia babai 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 laid in a gelatinous spiral ribbon and will hatch into free-swimming larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into the adult form.

Habitat

Phyllidia babai is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, typically on coral reefs or rocky substrates. They are benthic creatures, often seen crawling on the substrate or on the surfaces of sponges, their primary food source. Hobbyists should replicate these conditions as closely as possible to provide a suitable environment for these nudibranchs.