Common name: Pustulose wart slug

General information

The Pustulose Phyllidiella, scientifically known as Phyllidiella pustulosa, is a species of colorful sea slug belonging to the family Phyllidiidae. These nudibranchs are known for their striking appearance, featuring a black body with numerous pink to white tubercles and a distinctive pattern that provides a form of camouflage against predators.

Nudibranchs are a group of soft-bodied, marine gastropod mollusks which shed their shells after their larval stage. Phyllidiella pustulosa is particularly popular among marine enthusiasts for its unique look and the fact that it can serve as a natural control for certain unwanted pests in the aquarium.

Care

Caring for Pustulose Phyllidiella in a reef aquarium requires attention to water quality and tank conditions. They are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and phosphates, so maintaining pristine water conditions is crucial. They are not recommended for beginners due to their specific dietary needs; they feed exclusively on sponges, which must be present in the aquarium for them to survive.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Phyllidiella pustulosa involves laying spiral ribbons of eggs on the substrate or on rocks. They are hermaphrodites, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs, allowing them to exchange sperm with another individual to fertilize their eggs.

Habitat

Phyllidiella pustulosa is commonly found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and prefer to dwell on or near their sponge food sources. In the wild, they can be found at various depths, often ranging from shallow waters to deeper reef slopes.