Opalescent nudibranch

Did you know?

These "sea slugs" eat hydroids and anemones, which are armed with stinging capsules called nematocysts. These nematocysts don't harm the nudibranch. In fact, the animal transfers some of their prey's unfired nematocysts to the tips of their own cerrata so the stinging cells become part of the nudibranch's defense system. Some experts believe that the nudibranch's gaudy colors warn predators of these potent weapons.

Conservation

Nudibranchs are often found on rocky shores where pollution can be heaviest. You can help keep ocean waters clean by properly disposing of motor oils, paints, paint solvents, and other harmful materials.

Cool facts

• Opalescent nudibranchs are aggressive fighters. When two of them meet head-to-head, they're likely to lunge into a biting battle. The winner usually triumphs by meeting the tail of their foe and getting the first bite, then consumes the loser.
• Because opalescent nudibranchs live less than one year, they have to grow and reproduce quickly.
• To speed up the mating process, meeting between two or more of these slugs can become a group mating session since these creatures are hermaphroditic with both male and female sexual organs. Later, each slug lays an egg string in narrow coils that looks like tiny sausage links. They attach their eggs to eelgrass and algae.