The incredibly rare rainbow sea slug, typically found in Mediterranean waters, was spotted by a family during a rockpooling expedition in Devon earlier this year. Felix Lever and his father were lucky enough to encounter a rainbow nudibranch (sea slug).
Local marine biologist and underwater photographer Dr Paul Naylor said: « What a beauty! The sea slug was recognised as something very special and unusual by nudibranch expert Felix. » The rainbow sea slug is a type of Aeolid nudibranch, part of a family of very brightly coloured sea slugs.
Coral Smith, Devon Wildlife Trust’s Marine Engagement Officer, explained: « This must be the most brightly coloured, beautiful sea slug (or sea creature for that matter) I have ever seen!
« The discovery of the rainbow sea slug here in Devon is a strong indicator that our seas are warming due to climate change. Because it can now survive here means that other creatures adapted to colder water will be struggling. »
According to the Wildlife Trusts, other rare creatures that can be found underwater in the UK include the mauve stinger jellyfish and the orange-clubbed sea slug.
The orange-clubbed sea slug is « a small colourful sea slug that can be found grazing on sea mats on the rocky shore. They are hermaphrodites – meaning they are both male and female and lay thousands of eggs in a long spiral on seaweed. »
