Agassiz's Chromodorid

Felimare agassizii

Agassiz's Chromodorid is a nudibranch found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Galapagos Islands to Mexico. This species has a distinctive appearance with a black body adorned with numerous yellow spots. The upper surface features larger white spots that run longitudinally, while the mantle is bordered by a green-yellow-green band. Its gills are translucent gold tipped with black, and the rhinophores are black, making it relatively easy to identify among other nudibranchs. Typically inhabiting depths shallower than 40 meters, Agassiz's Chromodorid prefers environments such as coral reefs and rocky reefs. It has been recorded at multiple dive sites, indicating its presence in suitable habitats. The species feeds primarily on demosponges, with a diet that includes various sponge species such as Mycale psila and Cliona californiana. This nudibranch exhibits a herbivorous feeding behavior, grazing on its sponge diet. Encounters with Agassiz's Chromodorid during dives can be intriguing, as divers may observe its slow-moving nature and coloration. The species can grow to a length of at least 100 mm, allowing for clear visibility against the backdrop of the reef. As a hermaphroditic organism, it has the potential for diverse reproductive strategies, though specific breeding behaviors are not detailed in the sources.