Blue Velvet Nudibranch

The Blue Velvet Nudibranch (Chelidonura varians) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking deep-blue body accented with vivid electric-blue and black patterns. Its slender, ribbon-like form and gliding movements make it one of the most captivating invertebrates in the aquarium hobby.

Males typically display the same brilliant coloration as females, with little to no sexual dimorphism, while juveniles are smaller and more delicate but carry the same vibrant patterning. They reach about 2 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 20 gallons.

Provide a fine sandbed and ample live rock for grazing, as well as stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is necessary, since they may wander close to the waterline.

Diet should consist primarily of flatworms, which are their natural and specialized food source. Unfortunately, they rarely accept alternative foods such as mysis, brine, or pellets, making them difficult to sustain in captivity once flatworm populations are depleted.With proper care and food availability, this nudibranch makes a striking, though challenging, addition to the aquarium, best suited for experienced reef keepers.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.