Scientific Name: Thorunna australis
Common Name: Australian thorunna

Adult Size: 10 – 20 mm
Depth Range: 5 – 30 m
Biotope / Habitat: Coral reef slopes and rocky outcrops, often seen gliding over sponges and encrusting algae
Diet: Sponge feeder, using its radula to gently scrape and consume sponge tissue for nourishment and chemical defense
Reproduction: Hermaphroditic; reciprocal mating occurs, with small, coiled egg ribbons laid in sheltered reef areas
Fun Fact: Thorunna australis is instantly recognizable by its bright pink to reddish body with delicate white lines and bright orange-tipped gills and rhinophores — a striking highlight on any reef!

This small but vivid nudibranch is a delight for macro photographers and reef explorers, adding a vibrant pop of color to the reef’s sponge-covered surfaces.