Spotted sea hare

Photo: Yves Bas · CC BY

Aplysia punctata appears on the Heraklion terraces from March through June in significant numbers, feeding on the red algae that grows between gorgonian bases and releasing purple ink when disturbed — a defence mechanism derived from dietary pigments. The species is a mollusc, not a true sea slug, but its dramatic size (up to 20 cm) and striking spotted mantle make it a favourite macro subject for underwater photographers working the site's shallower sections. Seasonal aggregations appear to coincide with local spawning events, with egg masses visible in string-like white ribbons attached to algae and soft substrate from April onwards.