Atagema intecta

Atagema intecta is a dorid nudibranch known for its warty mantle, which typically exhibits a dark brown color that can appear nearly black. A notable feature is the thick, white, pasty line running along the center of its body. This species can grow to about 31.75 mm in length, and its dorsal tentacles are brown, clavate, and laminated. The oral tentacles are elongated and pointed, displaying a bright brown color, while the six branchial plumes are tripinnated and golden brown. The foot is narrow and extends beyond the mantle, also in a golden brown shade. This nudibranch inhabits the tropical Indo-West Pacific region, found in areas ranging from East Africa to Japan, South Korea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Fiji. It prefers benthic environments and is usually located at depths less than 40 meters, with most sightings occurring at around 30 meters or shallower. Its diet primarily consists of sponges, which serve as its main food source. Atagema intecta is a simultaneous hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. During mating, individuals engage in a behavior where they attempt to penetrate each other, with the dominant individual successfully fertilizing the other. Eggs are laid on a substrate and develop into a planktonic larval stage before transitioning to adulthood. Divers may find encounters with this nudibranch interesting, as it moves slowly and displays its unique coloration among sponges in its natural habitat.