Madeira Sea Slug – Plocamopherus maderae

Madeira Sea Slug – Plocamopherus maderae

Since I could not find a common name for this species I just call it Madeira Sea Slug. It is a species in the family of Polyceridae and thus belongs to the class of Gastropoda.

Description

Plocamopherus maderae has an elongated body with red colouration, numerous extracts and fine white and dark red spots. The gills are located in the middle. It reaches a maximum size of 5cm in length.

Habitat and Distribution

The Madeira Sea Slug lives on rocky ground with algae growth,down to a depth of 20m. When diving in the Canaries you can observe them quiet often in certain locations. In addition, its distribution area spreads across the Mediterranean Sea, Madeira and Cape Verde. It is probably even more widespread in the Atlantic Ocean.

Biology

Plocamopherus maderae feeds on moss animals. They also fluoresce and are nocturnal.

Associated Species

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