Goniobranchus reticulatus (Reticulated goniobranchus)
Identification
Fairly large nudibranch with red and white reticulated pattern and many tiny tubercles. The gills are orange to red on the outside and white on the inside. The rhinophores are red to orange on white stalks. The mantle is white and really thin.
Status
Unassessed by the IUCN Red list, but considered a common species in Western Pacific.
Habitat
They can be found in the Western Pacific to the Tonga islands and Japan. They are often found on or nearby sponges.
Reproduction
Eggs are laid in a ribbon of mucus.
Size
Up to 5cm.
Prey / Predation
They feed on sponges.
Special features
There are a few other species of related Goniobranchus slugs that look very similar to G. reticulatus, such as G. tinctoria and G. albopunctata. They can often be distinguished by details on the mantle.
