Common name: umbrella pleurobranch

General information

Umbraculum umbraculum, commonly known as the Umbrella Slug or Umbrella Snail, is a unique marine gastropod that stands out due to its large, disc-shaped shell and mantle. Unlike typical snails, it does not have a coiled shell, which gives it a distinctive appearance resembling an umbrella. This species is part of the Umbraculidae family and is not a true sea slug, as it retains its shell, albeit in a highly reduced form.

Care

The care of Umbraculum umbraculum in a reef aquarium requires attention to water quality and diet. They are not commonly kept in home aquariums, but for those who do, it's essential to maintain stable water parameters and provide a diet rich in algae and detritus. They can help control algae growth but should not be relied upon as the sole means of algae management.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Umbraculum umbraculum is not well documented in the aquarium hobby, but like many marine gastropods, they are likely to be broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs externally.

Habitat

Umbraculum umbraculum is found in a variety of marine environments, from shallow reefs to deeper waters. They are benthic creatures, often seen grazing on algae-covered surfaces. Their natural distribution includes temperate and tropical waters around the world, with a presence in the Indo-Pacific region, the Mediterranean Sea, and along the coasts of Australia and New Zealand.