Scientific Name: Tubulophilinopsis gardineri
Common Name: Gardiner’s tubulophilinopsis

Adult Size: 20 – 50 mm
Depth Range: 5 – 30 m
Biotope / Habitat: Sandy bottoms and rubble zones near coral reefs, often gliding over algae and detritus
Diet: Carnivorous; preys on small invertebrates, using its radula to grasp and consume them whole
Reproduction: Hermaphroditic; mates reciprocally, with small, coiled egg ribbons laid in protected sandy patches
Fun Fact: Tubulophilinopsis gardineri’s streamlined black body and subtle blue coloration make it a stealthy predator, blending perfectly with sandy substrates and algae-covered rubble!

This elegant sea slug’s muted but refined appearance adds a quiet charm to the reef’s sandy edges, offering a fascinating glimpse into the hidden world of reef predators.