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The Nanaimo dorid or rufous-tipped nudibranch is a sea slug with feathery external gills and no internal shell. These soft-bodied animals can be found in the Northeastern Pacific, from Alaska to Santa Barbara, California. Nanaimo dorids are most commonly spotted near British Columbia and Washington. They become less common in the southern portion of their range. They inhabit rocky subtidal and low intertidal habitats, and may be spotted on rocks and seaweed, or in crevices down to depths of 83 ft (25 m). Their soft body typically has a
whitish background color that can turn to a mottled brown in larger specimens. They are covered in numerous yellow-tipped projections (papillae). A yellow band can typically be seen outlining their body. They have a pair of long sensory organs on their head called rhinophores, that serve to pick up smells in their environment. Their frilly gills are arranged in a circle toward the back of their body. These sea slugs typically measure about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, but they can be slightly larger. Both the tips of the rhinophores and the tips of the gills are deep
red or brown in color. White specks are often visible on the rhinophores. Nanaimo dorids feed on ascidians (sea squirts) and bryozoans, (specifically ctenostome bryozoans such as Alcyonidium species (including Alcyonidium polyoum)), tiny creatures that live in colonies and do not move around. Like all nudibranchs, Nanaimo dorids are simultaneous hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. This allows them to mate with any other member of their species. They lay ribbons of white to cream-colored eggs in a circular pattern on
rocks. When handled, Nanaino dorids are known to be highly fragrant, emitting a sweet, fruity scent that has been compared to cedar or sandalwood. For more marine facts, click the SUBSCRIBE button!
