BBC Wildlife Magazine

Sacoproteu­s seaslugs

- Stuart Blackman

WHAT IS IT? While most seaslugs advertise their unpalatabi­lity with garish colours, three new species would rather not be noticed at all. But they are no less stunning for that, being remarkable examples of animals that mimic plants. Bulbous projection­s on their backs allow them to blend in among sea grapes seaweed.

WHERE IS IT? Each of the three seaslug species feed on a different type of toxic sea grape seaweed found throughout the Pacific and the Philippine­s. It’s not yet clear whether the seaslugs gain further protection by incorporat­ing the toxins into their own tissues, as many other seaslugs do.

 ??  ?? Grape-like growths offer the perfect disguise for these seaslugs.
Grape-like growths offer the perfect disguise for these seaslugs.
 ??  ??

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