Nudibranch

Colorful Slugs of the Sea

One of the most fascinating creatures of the sea, these small but mighty jelly-bodied, shell-less mollusks are part of the sea slug family. Nudibranchs inhabit ocean waters throughout the world, from the Southern Ocean to the Arctic and everywhere in between. Depending on the species, adult sizes can range from 0.25 to 12 inches. These soft-bodied gastropods derive their name from the Latin word Nudibranchia, meaning naked gills, which is why most have feathery gills and horns on their backs.

Nudibranchs are famous for their extravagant coloration and ornate patterns, making them a favorite sighting amongst divers. Three thousand known species of nudibranchs live in all saltwater habitats and depths from the intertidal zone to over 700m (2,300ft) deep; however, the largest variety resides on shallow, warm reefs. As benthic animals, these beautiful, oblong-shaped invertebrates are usually seen crawling along the substrate, grazing on algae, coral, anemones, sponges, and more. Check out the map below to see where you can find your favorite nudibranch species.

Dive sites with this animal Show more on map

DivePoint Hudhuran Fushi, 20193 Male

★★★★★ HP Reef / Rainbow Reef

One of the most colorful dive sites in North Male Atoll. On the south side of Girifushi island with abundant fish life and very nice soft corals, there are numerous blue soft corals and a swim through. The current can be strong!

One2Dive, 4907 ZK Oosterhout

★★★★☆ Kerkweg, Den Osse

Dive site Kerkweg in Den Osse is one of the most famous dive sites in Zeeland. Here you can dive from the jetty on oyster beds, an artificial reef of reefballs and many other hard substrate that is nicely overgrown. The maximum depth is about 30 metres, but you will find most life in the shallow water.

DivePoint Hudhuran Fushi, 20193 Male

★★★★☆ Okobe Thila

This amazing reef are 3 blocks. The biggest begins in the south between 80-100m long and it's full of corals, it would be nice we can start here. In the east we have another wonderful block a bit similar to east block Maya Thila covert full with corals. In the north is the smallest block. AOW or higher

PT. BAHARI INTAN ABADI, 80224 Denpasar Selatan

★★★★★ USAT Liberty Wreck

This is the only historical shipwreck in Bali, ranked #3 in the world for Wreck diving! The wreck is 25 meters form shore at a depth of 4 to 29 meters below the surface with most of it occuring in a shallow area. This dive site does not have strong currents, has clear water, and warm temperatures. Difficult entry!

DivePoint Hudhuran Fushi, 20193 Male

★★★★☆ Kani Corner

Kani Corner is basically a slope that goes to 25 - 30 m in a sandy bottom. There are some big blocks this deep and at the right time, mantas visit the blocks or pass by the top of the reef. The current can be strong so take caution.

Neil D. (#3039000)

★★★★☆ Frederiksted Pier

One of the top macro dives anywhere! Scattered ruins and columns are coral encrusted and provide habitat for many types of shallow sea life. The pier is 1526ft/465m long so lots to discover with a gradual westerly decline. Perfect for snorkeling & non-certified divers too.