Varicose Wart

The Invertebrate Varicose Wart (Phyllidia varicosa) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its vivid black body covered with bright yellow or orange wart-like tubercles, intricate patterns, and unique bumpy texture.

Males typically are slightly smaller and more slender, while females/juveniles tend to be rounder and slightly larger. They reach about 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide a sandy substrate with plenty of live rock for grazing, hiding spots, and some open areas for movement, maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and use a secure lid, as some nudibranchs are delicate and may crawl out accidentally.

Diet should consist of specific sponge species, as Phyllidia varicosa are obligate sponge feeders, and with proper care, this invertebrate makes a striking and unusual addition to a reef aquarium.

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.