Gymnodoris aurita | Strawberry Nudibranch

Exploring the Enchanting Gymnodoris aurita (Strawberry Nudibranch) at The Three P Beach Resort
The Gymnodoris aurita, commonly known as the Long-eared Nudibranch, is a mesmerizing creature that captivates scuba diving enthusiasts visiting our dive resort in Romblon, Philippines. This remarkable sea slug earned its name from the distinctive pair of elongated sensory appendages (oral tentacles) that resemble ears, setting it apart from other nudibranch species in our waters.
What makes this species particularly special for underwater photography is its stunning coloration – a bright red or orange body color beautifully contrasted with white or yellow spots. The most striking feature, besides its “ears,” is the arrangement of dark spots along its body, creating a unique pattern that macro photography experts love to capture during their dives at The Three P Beach Resort.
Typically growing to around 3-4 centimeters in length, the Gymnodoris aurita displays fascinating hunting behavior that lucky divers might witness. Like its cousin G. impudica, this species is a predatory nudibranch, actively pursuing other sea slugs across the sandy substrate and coral rubble areas of our dive sites. They feed on smaller nudibranchs, usually from the genus Marionia. This behavior makes it an exciting subject for both photographers and marine biology enthusiasts.
At our dive resort, you’ll find these elegant creatures throughout the year, though they’re particularly active during early morning dives. Our experienced dive guides excel at spotting these nudibranchs at depths between 5-25 meters, especially in areas where coral rubble meets sandy slopes – a habitat preference that makes our house reef an ideal location for encountering these beautiful animals.
The presence of Gymnodoris aurita in Romblon’s waters adds to the incredible biodiversity that makes our region a premier destination for critter hunting and macro photography. Whether you’re an experienced diver seeking to photograph these elegant creatures or a curious naturalist eager to observe their behavior, The Three P Beach Resort offers the perfect base for your underwater explorations.
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