Meet the Adorable Underwater Star: The Bali Fluorescent Sea Slug

In the depths of Bali’s coastal waters, a charming and vibrant underwater world unveils its treasures, with one particular sea creature stealing the spotlight. Amateur underwater photographer Lynn Wu, a Taiwanese bank worker with a passion for scuba diving, stumbled upon a collection of whimsical and enchanting marine species during a recent diving expedition. Among these captivating discoveries was an incredibly unique sea slug that has earned comparisons to a beloved children’s character, Ermintrude from The Magic Roundabout. With its luminous green body adorned with pink accents and comical googly black eyes, this sea slug has become a symbol of Bali’s extraordinary underwater diversity.

The colourful creature was captured in Bali by amateur photographer Lynn Wu during a scuba diving trip to the country's shores

Lynn Wu’s scuba diving escapades have taken them on numerous journeys beneath the ocean’s surface. During a recent excursion off the coast of Bali, their camera lens captured a world teeming with colorful and curious marine life. Among these discoveries was a fluorescent sea slug, boasting an appearance reminiscent of a beloved fictional character.

At first glance, the fluorescent critter could be mistaken for a character in a children's television programme or illustration 

This particular sea slug, affectionately known as the “Bali Fluorescent Sea Slug,” has garnered attention from marine scientists who have classified it as ‘ìCostasiellaî.’ Its striking appearance, with vibrant green hues and delicate pink accents, draws immediate comparisons to the endearing Ermintrude from The Magic Roundabout. The creature’s large, googly black eyes add a touch of whimsy to its already enchanting visage.

Others discovered during the bank worker's trip were not quite as colourful but showed off the same googly black eyes and antennae 

Aside from their vivid colors and captivating eyes, these sea slugs are also masters of disguise. They employ camouflage techniques to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, adopting the colors and patterns of the seabed as they navigate the ocean depths. This ability to vanish into their environment helps deter potential predators and ensures their survival.

Part of the creatures' bodies camouflaged with the seabed, adopting bright hues of green as they navigated their way through the waters
Lynn Wu’s photographic journey didn’t stop at the Bali Fluorescent Sea Slug. They also documented other marine species during their expedition, showcasing the same googly black eyes and quirky antennae that make these creatures so endearing. From rounder, porcupine-like forms to bright yellow specimens with spotted tips, each discovery adds to the wonder and diversity of Bali’s underwater ecosystem.
Another adopted a rounder shape, taking on a porcupine-like shape in a presumed bid to ward off predators on the seabed 
The bright yellow creature's antennae camouflaged to the rest of its body, showing off black, spotted tips amid the dark sea 
The underwater world of Bali continues to enchant and surprise, thanks to intrepid adventurers like Lynn Wu, who capture the magic hidden beneath the waves. As we marvel at the Bali Fluorescent Sea Slug and its charming resemblance to Ermintrude from The Magic Roundabout, we’re reminded of the boundless wonders that await discovery in our oceans. These enchanting creatures serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting the fragile ecosystems that make up our planet’s underwater realms.