The Ghost Nudibranch
Melibe colemani (Gosliner & Smith, 2003) is one of the most impressive nudibranchs at our macro dive sites in Romblon, Philippines. Divers call it the Ghost Nudibranch. Its large, transparent body and enormous expandable oral hood make it unmistakeable. It belongs to the order Nudibranchia, suborder Dendronotina, family Tethydidae. Furthermore, it is closely related to Melibe engeli and Melibe digitata, also documented in our Marine Life Encyclopedia. Find it on iNaturalist.
The Oral Hood Hunter
The oral hood of Melibe colemani is its defining feature. The hood opens wide and sweeps forward to trap small crustaceans and copepods from the water. It then contracts rapidly when prey enters. Notably, this species has no radula at all — it swallows prey whole. The cylindrical cerata run in rows along the dorsum. The digestive gland branches are clearly visible through the transparent body wall. In addition, some individuals harbour zooxanthellae — photosynthetic algae that provide supplementary energy. This makes it one of very few nudibranchs with both active predation and solar-powered nutrition.
Finding It at Sunset Cove
At Sunset Cove Beach & Dive Resort, our guides find this species on sandy and rubble substrate at 5 to 25 metres depth. The Ghost Nudibranch reaches up to 80 mm in length. Therefore, it is one of the larger nudibranch species at our dive sites. However, its transparency still makes it easy to miss. Night dives offer the best opportunity — the oral hood is often extended during active feeding. For underwater macro photographers in Romblon, a shot with the oral hood fully extended against a dark background is one of the most dramatic nudibranch images possible. Consequently, this species is one of the most sought-after subjects at Sunset Cove. Our experienced guides know exactly where to look and patiently position you for the perfect shot.