Hexabranchus sanquineus

(Ruppell & Leuckart, 1828)

Spanish Dancer

Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean: Western Australia.

Size: 12 inches (30 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow coral reefs and shallow intertidal platforms.

Aquarium Suitability: Rarely available in the trade.

This large slug feeds mainly on sponges, i.e., those in the genus Dysidea or Aplysilla, therefore its lifespan in aquariums without these specific sponges to consume, is extremely limited.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Mollusca

Class: Gastropoda

Order: Nudibranchia

Family: Hexabranchidae

Genus: Hexabranchus

FYI: Simply a species having very limited lifespan in home aquariums.

Sensitive to salinity changes, acclimate carefully.

Attractive, as many are, but best left in the wild!

Experience Level: Expert

Diet: Carnivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Coral Safe: Yes

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Hardiness: Difficult

Temperature Range: 72 - 83°F (22 - 28°C)

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

Lighting: Unaffected by intensity

Water Movement: WM 1 - 2

Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

pH: 8.0 - 8.4