Chromodoris quadricolor Nudibranch – Anilao

The image is of a vibrant nudibranch named Chromodoris quadricolor, a type of sea slug, or nudibranch. The nudibranch has a striking color pattern and named for the distinct 4 colors on it’s body. A vivid yellow is bordered by thin white lines. Inside these yellow bands are thick, deep black stripes, and within those are thinner, bright blue stripes. The mantle of the nudibranch is wavy and undulating, giving it a dynamic form. Two feathery orange rhinophores (sensory organs) protrude from the front of its head. A cluster of similarly colored, feathery gills is visible towards the posterior end of the nudibranch. The overall impression is one of intricate detail and vivid natural beauty found in the underwater world. This image was taken off Anilao near Batangas in the Philippines.