Hypselodoris Maridadilus

Hypselodoris maridadilus is a distinct species of sea slug within the order Nudibranchia, belonging to the family Chromodorididae. The species is characterized by its vibrant coloration and is a marine gastropod mollusk. Deriving its specific epithet from the Swahili word "maridadi," meaning "beautiful," this nudibranch primarily sustains itself through the consumption of various sponge species.

Geographically, the distribution of Hypselodoris maridadilus spans the 🌊 Western Indian Ocean, with observed populations ranging from 🇿🇦 South Africa to the 🌊 Red Sea.

Phenotypically, Hypselodoris maridadilus typically exhibits a body coloration of white, cream, or yellow, adorned with five prominent purple longitudinal lines, and a corresponding purple-bordered mantle. Notably, its gills and rhinophores are of a strikingly bright orange hue. This species displays a close resemblance to its congenor, Hypselodoris whitei, which can be differentiated by its white-tipped rhinophores and gills. Adult specimens of Hypselodoris maridadilus have been documented to achieve a total body length of at least 35 mm (1.4 inches).