Chromodoris Reticulata

Chromodoris Reticulata

A broad red-and-white nudibranch covered in a dense network of tiny markings, this one looks almost like it has been wrapped in lace. The crimson pattern breaks into countless pale islands across its back, while a clean white margin follows the ruffled edge of the mantle. Orange-brown rhinophores rise from the front and a soft fan of gills opens at the rear, giving the whole animal a surprisingly delicate finish despite its bold coloring.

• Size: Up to around 60 mm
• Range: Indo-West Pacific; from Indonesia and the Philippines through Japan and eastward to Tonga
• Habitat / Depth: Shallow coral reefs, rocky areas and coral rubble, typically from around 2–10 m
• Diet: Feeds on sponges, as is typical of chromodorid nudibranchs