Blue Velvet Nudibranch

Level of care
Expert only
Temperament
Peaceful
Color
Black, blue, yellow
Diet
Carnivorous
Reef friendly
No
Water conditions
22-25°C, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
Maximum size
7.9 cm
Minimum aquarium size
38 liters

The blue velvet nudibranch, also known as the shieldhead sea slug, is black with blue lines around the outside of its body and down the middle of its head. Its head is hammer-shaped, and its two appendages at the rear resemble flatworms.
This specialized feeder consumes flatworms in aquariums. It sucks them up with a tubular proboscis and is an excellent natural alternative for flatworm control. However, to thrive, it must be fed flatworms regularly. Furthermore, it is sensitive to rapid changes in water conditions and has a short lifespan. Therefore, only experienced aquarists should attempt to keep this species.

Spawning occurs regularly when several individuals of this species are kept together. Unfortunately, the success rate of larval rearing has not been very good.

The blue velvet nudibranch must be acclimated using the drip method. Water intakes and pump drains can damage it, so it is important to protect them. It is sensitive to high nitrate levels and does not tolerate copper-based medications.