A rare rainbow sea slug, belonging to the Babakina anadoni species, has been discovered in a rock pool off the coast of Cornwall, UK. This is only the fourth sighting of this species in the country, and the first discovery in a rock pool.
The rainbow sea slug, also known as an aeolid nudibranch, is usually found in the warm waters of the Atlantic, off the coast of Spain, Portugal, and France. Measuring only 2 cm in length, it is famous for its bright colours and striking appearance, with a diet consisting of seaweeds, anemones, and other sea slugs.
The first sighting of this rare creature was in August 2019, by Seasearch volunteers off the Isles of Scilly, followed by a snorkeler sighting off the coast of West Cornwall in the same month. The latest sighting was found by graphic designer Emily Barlow who discovered the animal while volunteering for a local rock pool project in Falmouth.
Dr Ben Holt, a marine biologist and CEO of The Rock Pool Project, emphasises the importance of continued research and exploration in the field. He points out the changes occurring in the marine life within the South West over the past five years, making this rare discovery even more exciting.
This rare creature has caught the attention of marine biologists and enthusiasts alike, expanding scientific knowledge about its range and behaviour. Its appearance in a UK rock pool is thought to be linked to the impact of climate change, following the reports of the UK’s warmest winter on record. The discovery of such a beautiful creature is a reminder of the importance of preserving local marine wildlife and continued research to learn more about the amazing creatures inhabiting our oceans.
This article was generated by AI. We strive to provide the highest quality content possible and value your feedback. Please let us know if you have any concerns or suggestions regarding this article.
