Sea Slugs & Nudibranchs

Sea slugs are a common name for various marine invertebrates that share a resemblance to terrestrial slugs. Most sea slugs belong to the phylum Mollusca, specifically the class Gastropoda, which also includes snails. The scientific name for this group is Opisthobranchia.

Within this group, nudibranchs are a particularly diverse and visually striking family. Their scientific name, Nudibranchia, comes from the Latin words "nudus" meaning "naked" and "branchia" meaning "gills". This refers to their exposed gills, which often appear as colorful, feathery structures on their backs.​ They are known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, which serve as a warning to predators about their toxicity or to camouflage perfectly with their habitat. Nudibranchs possess unique features such as external gills and a soft, unprotected body, allowing them to thrive in various marine environments. They can be found in diverse habitats, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and deep-sea environments, showcasing their adaptability.

“Sea slugs and especially nudibranchs have captured my heart over a decade ago. Their remarkable ability adapt to their surroundings is truly fascinating, they're like the chameleons of the ocean. With a stunning array of forms and colors, these creatures never cease to amaze, often blending seamlessly into their environment. It's a delightful surprise to discover that what you thought was just a part of the ocean floor or a algae is actually a perfectly adapted organism. You might start to wonder if they’re just playing hide and seek with us.”

— Sina Joëlle