Nudibranchs (sea slugs) are one of the most diverse marine invertebrates in the world. More than 5,000 species exist and many more have yet to be described. The biggest, nudipleura, is well known by divers due its brilliant colours and ability to camouflage.
Pioneering nudibranch research in Mozambique
The first study on nudipleura in Mozambique was conducted at the Závora Marine Lab, in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History. This project assesses the biodiversity of nudipleura in Mozambique, aims to solve a complex of species problems and describe new species. The latter aims to describe spatial and temporal distribution.
More than 230 species have been identified since the Závora Marine Lab was established in 2009. Many previously undescribed species are attributed to the lab’s research.
Techniques
Belt transect technique is used to collect spatial and temporal data of opisthobranch distribution. Focal diver techniques are helping to identify rare and deep species. Quadrats and per-time are helping to assess the local distribution of nudibranchs in in the region.