Hypselodoris Apolegma (Purple Sea Slug) Interesting

[Domboski]

Hi all,

I have made a mistake of many today and purchased an HA. I know it is not a "Purple Sea Slug" but noticed a lot of people have purchased one under that name or searched for it with that name.

I have attached an interesting picture (not the best). It has been several hours since I introduced this beautiful invert into my tank. After reading hours of posts and articles of people who say that this creature is a picky eater of sponges and dies of starvation quickly, I checked my tank with a flashlight (as I frequently do) and noticed he was in the exact same position as hours before (when the light was on). His head had moved to several different points though. I took a closer look and it appears that he is eating something on the live rock (can't tell what).

I figured I would take the opportunity to start a new thread and get feedback on my picture (although tough to see) or at least spark a discussion of other hobbyists’ experiences.

 

[Domboski]

Well, it may have been a false alarm. I don't think it was eating but preparing to lay eggs (see below). I hope the eggs are good food for the fish and other habitants. I am still interested in other experience's people may have had with this slug.

 

[NaH2O]

We had one of these in my sister's tank. It was quite beautiful, but would often surf in the current. I was very concerned with this, as I thought it would eventually get sucked onto a powerhead and die. Usually bright colorations like this mean toxicity, so I didn't want it to die and kill everything. It disappeared one day, so I'm sure it died, but nothing seemed to be effected. There are similar nudibranchs Chromodoris bullocki that look similar. I believe you will be most successful with plenty of matured live rock (sponge growth) and watch the powerheads. Keep us posted on how it does.