I need info on a Nudibranch.

Shariesue · #1 02/20/2006, 06:03 PM

At a local pet store, I saw a "nudibranch" but refrained from buying one because the person told me they give off some sort of dye in your tank when they die.

I have a 90 gal FO/live rock tank....is there any truth or danger involved if I bought one?

TippyToeX · #2 02/20/2006, 07:27 PM

It depends on the nudibranch. Some are toxic, all are specialized feeders. I would not recommend your getting one with out knowing the species first. can you find that information?

DJ88© · #3 02/20/2006, 07:34 PM

[moved]

Shariesue · #4 02/21/2006, 08:02 AM

I'll have to ask the pet shop more about this nudibranch...all I know is that it was purple...very pretty...and I had never seen one before. However, I won't take any risks with my tank or fish. Lost too many when I first got into this hobby. I'm still learning and rely on this site so much. Thanks for replying to my note....

LeslieH · #5 02/21/2006, 10:31 AM

The purple ones sold in LFS stores are usually Hypselodoris bullocki or Hypselodoris apolegma. These are specialized sponge eaters & they usually die of starvation in tanks. Sponges produce toxic chemicals to keep from being eaten. The chemicals donÂ´t bother the nudis, in fact they manage to store the chemicals in their own bodies for defense. When they die the chemicals are released. If the concentration is high enough it can harm or kill other critters in the tank.

Shariesue · #6 02/21/2006, 03:35 PM

Thanks for the info Leslie....sounds like I'd better steer clear of these nudis......glad I asked before I bought one. They were so pretty and naturally I wanted to buy one or two. Appreciate the scoop!