Thecacera pacifica
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
5-25 meters
The Pikachu nudibranch has earned its playful common name from its bright yellow body with black-tipped orange rhinophores and gill appendages that bear an uncanny resemblance to the famous pocket monster character. This tiny sea slug, rarely exceeding 2 centimetres in length, is one of the most sought-after critter finds in Komodo and a bucket-list species for many macro photographers visiting the park. Thecacera pacifica is a member of the polycerid nudibranch family and feeds on bryozoans — tiny colonial animals that encrust reef surfaces. In Komodo, Pikachu nudibranchs are found at macro-rich dive sites, typically crawling across bryozoan colonies at moderate depths. Their small size and specific habitat requirements make them a challenging find that rewards sharp-eyed guides and patient divers. Despite their diminutive stature, they are perfectly formed, with elaborate appendages extending from their mantle margin that may serve as sensory organs or defensive decoys. Finding one during a Komodo dive trip generates genuine excitement and is often the most shared photograph from the journey.
Average Size
1-1.5cm
Size Range
0.5-2cm
Maximum Size
2cm
Feeds on bryozoans — tiny colonial animals that encrust reef surfaces. Uses its radula to graze on the soft tissue of specific bryozoan species.
The Pikachu nudibranch has earned its playful common name from its bright yellow body with black-tipped orange rhinophores and gill appendages that bear an uncanny resemblance to the famous pocket monster character. This tiny sea slug, rarely exceeding 2 centimetres in length, is one of the most sought-after critter finds in Komodo and a bucket-list species for many macro photographers visiting the park. Thecacera pacifica is a member of the polycerid nudibranch family and feeds on bryozoans — tiny colonial animals that encrust reef surfaces. In Komodo, Pikachu nudibranchs are found at macro-rich dive sites, typically crawling across bryozoan colonies at moderate depths. Their small size and specific habitat requirements make them a challenging find that rewards sharp-eyed guides and patient divers. Despite their diminutive stature, they are perfectly formed, with elaborate appendages extending from their mantle margin that may serve as sensory organs or defensive decoys. Finding one during a Komodo dive trip generates genuine excitement and is often the most shared photograph from the journey.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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They are rare finds at macro-rich sites, particularly in areas with good bryozoan coverage. Cannibal Rock, Torpedo Alley, and Nusa Kode are the most likely locations. Ask your guide about recent sightings.
