Common name: Shireen's Phyllidiopsis

General information

Phyllidiopsis shireenae is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, belonging to the family Phyllidiidae. This colorful invertebrate is known for its striking appearance, featuring a blue to purple body with black ridges and yellow or orange tubercles. It is a dorid nudibranch, which means it has gills located on its posterior end.

Care

Phyllidiopsis shireenae requires a well-established reef aquarium with stable water conditions. They are sensitive to high levels of nitrates and fluctuations in water quality. A diet for this nudibranch should include sponges, its natural food source in the wild. However, it can be challenging to provide a sustainable food source for this species in captivity, making it suitable for more experienced aquarists.

Reproduction

Like many nudibranchs, Phyllidiopsis shireenae 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 will eventually settle and metamorphose into the adult form.

Habitat

Phyllidiopsis shireenae is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, typically on coral reefs. They are benthic creatures, often seen crawling on the substrate or on the reef structure. They prefer areas with an abundance of their food source, sponges.