Lemon Lolly Doris

Doris chrysoderma

Doris chrysoderma is a distinctive sea slug found in temperate waters of Southern Australia, specifically from New South Wales to Western Australia. This dorid nudibranch typically displays a background color that ranges from bright yellow to pale cream, adorned with rounded white pustules that are a key identifying feature. It grows to approximately 30 mm in length, making it relatively small compared to other marine species. Divers can easily recognize it by its unique coloration and the presence of these white pustules, which set it apart from similar nudibranchs in the region. This species inhabits sublittoral zones and is usually found at depths shallower than 40 meters. It thrives in various marine environments, including rocky reefs and temperate reefs. The Lemon Lolly Doris is herbivorous, feeding on algae and other small invertebrates found in its habitat. Its breeding habits are not extensively documented, but like many nudibranchs, it is likely to reproduce through external fertilization, laying eggs in the water column. Encounters with Doris chrysoderma during dives can be rewarding, as divers may observe its slow movements and feeding behavior among the substrate. The conservation status of Doris chrysoderma is currently not evaluated, suggesting that it does not face significant threats to its population.