At first glance, you would think you are staring at some hydroids or sponges. But what you are seeing is a transparent anatomy of a newly discovered nudibranch.It’s easy to see how such a unique slug avoided discovery until recently. TheMelibegenus is unique in comprising of active predators versus the typical Nudibranch that feed on sessile inverts. Therefore, this transparent camouflage makes evolutionary sense.
Melibe colemaniwas first discovered by the late great underwater photographer, Neville Coleman. He passed away back in May of this year. He was an epic naturalist, underwater explorer, and an amazing photographer. While we as aquarists don’t usually specifically try to keep nudibranch unless we’re trying to getBerghiato graze some aiptasia but they really are cool marine animals. More details about the Nudi and its discoverer can be foundhere. A big thanks to Jim Walters for turning us on to this very cool sea slug.
