Spurilla Nudibranch - Aiptasia Eater

Spurilla sp. - The Biota captive bred Spurilla Nudibranch is a type of Aeolid nudibranch. The species commonly associated with the name "Spurilla" in North Carolina waters is likely Spurilla neapolitana, a species widely distributed in warm temperate and tropical waters, though identification can sometimes be tricky due to the variety of similar nudibranchs.

We find that the Spurilla we breed at Biota North Carolina are voracious Aiptasia eaters. This is a larger nudibranch, ranging from 1 to 3 inches in length. 

Spurilla nudibranchs are typically characterized by their elongated bodies, covered with cerata (finger-like projections) that house extensions of their digestive system. These cerata may be orange, brown, or even translucent, depending on the species and their diet. Their coloration often reflects the types of prey they consume, mainly anemones and other cnidarians. The pigments from their diet can give them a striking appearance.

In nature this nudibranch is found in shallow coastal waters, including tide pools and rocky intertidal zones, Spurilla nudibranchs are often spotted along the coast of North Carolina. They are most commonly observed on or near their prey, such as sea anemones.

These nudibranchs are specialist feeders that consume cnidarians like anemones. Remarkably, they can store the stinging cells (nematocysts) from their prey within their cerata, using them for their own defense.

Like all nudibranchs, Spurilla are simultaneous hermaphrodites, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. After mating, they lay spiral egg ribbons that hatch into free-swimming larvae.