Flabellina iodinea

Origin

 * They are found off the west coast of the USA and Canada to the Galapagos islands.

Sexing

 * Nudibranchs are hermaphroditic, however they do not fertilise themselves when breeding and will pair up, with both individuals then laying eggs.

Tank compatibility

 * Not recommended for keeping in captivity due to their sensitivity.

Diet

 * Extremely fussy eaters, the Spanish Shawl feeds almost exclusively on hydroids.

Environment Specifics

 * Very delicate to changes in their environment. Requires an SG of 1.023-1.025.

Behaviour

 * Constantly on the prowl for food, they are a form of sea slug therefore move quite slowly and can be a target for boisterous fish.

Identification

 * One of the most elaborate Nudibranchs found off the west coast of the USA, it has a rich purple body with orange gills and scarlet rhinophores.