Lettuce Sea Slug (Elysia crispata)
Invertebrate in the family Placobranchidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Diet and feeding
These slugs are obligate herbivores feeding primarily on macroalgae, especially Caulerpa and Ulva species. They obtain zooxanthellae from consumed algae and incorporate it into their own tissues for photosynthesis.
Origin and habitat
Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Caribbean to Brazil.
Keeper notes
• Minimum 20 gallon tank with strong water flow and excellent filtration • Maintain temperature 72–78 °F, pH 8.1–8.3, and salinity 1.023–1.025 • Feed primarily on macroalgae, especially green hair algae and Caulerpa species; supplement with nori if algae depletes • Nocturnal and shy; provide hiding spots and low lighting to reduce stress • Remove any predatory fish or aggressive invertebrates that may attack the slug
Log Lettuce Sea Slug in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Lettuce Sea Slug alongside everything else in your reef.
