The Spanish Dancer nudibranch earns its name from the dramatic, ruffled crimson gills that billow like a flamenco skirt when the animal moves. Growing to around 25 cm, this large nudibranch inhabits rocky reefs and rubble zones at depths of 5–40 m across tropical and subtropical waters. Despite its striking appearance, the Spanish Dancer is nocturnal and feeds on toxic sponges, storing their defensive compounds in its own tissues for protection. Divers spotting one during the day should consider it a bonus—most encounters happen after dark.
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.