Scientific Name: Aldisa zavorensis
Common Name: “Spotted Aldisa”

Adult Size: 10 – 25 mm
Depth Range: 8 – 35 m; frequently on outer-reef slopes and shaded walls
Biotope / Habitat: Hard substrates overgrown with pale beige to rust-brown sponges, especially in areas with moderate current
Diet: Obligate feeder on thin encrusting demosponges (family Hemisclerophoridae); incorporates sponge pigments to match its background
Reproduction: Hermaphroditic; partners align flank-to-flank, then lay a low, orange-cream ribbon of eggs on the food sponge. Veliger larvae drift in the plankton before settling.
Fun Fact: Aldisa zavorensis carries two raised, oval patches on its back that mimic the inhalant pores of its prey sponge—perfect camouflage that fools both predators and photographers!

A. zavorensis is a master of stealth. Scan sponge-covered rock for two subtle “saddle” marks and a smooth, flattened profile; once you tune in, these little dorids start revealing themselves all over the reef.