Berghia nudibranchs are a great addition for getting rid of pesky aiptasia anemones. Though small in size, these specialist predators’ diet consists strictly of aiptasia in the wild. These otherwise harmless nudibranchs can quickly and effectively take care of even the worst infestations without damaging the corals in your reef. Berghia tend to do best in tanks with lower to moderate flow with plenty of rock structure to avoid potential predators. These nudibranchs will thrive in small colonies and we recommend introducing them in groups to increase their efficiency and effectiveness at eliminating aiptasia.
- Please see second image for size reference
- Capable of consuming 2-5 aiptasia per day
- Capable of producing egg sacs (200-500 eggs) every 14 days.
- One XL Berghia recommended per 30 gallons of aquarium water
- Minimum order 3 recommended
***Please note that some wrasses, carnivorous shrimp, and filefish may pick at berghia nudibranchs or their eggs.
Introduction to Berghia Nudibranch (Aiptasia Control Specialist)
Berghia nudibranchs (Aeolidiella stephanieae) are reef-safe, Aiptasia-eating marine slugs that serve as a natural solution for controlling Aiptasia infestations in saltwater aquariums. Unlike chemical treatments, these nudibranchs target only Aiptasia anemones, making them a safe and effective option for pest management. How Many Berghia Nudibranchs Do You Need? The number of Berghia required depends on tank size and Aiptasia infestation level: 10-30 gallons: 2-3 nudibranchs for light infestations, 4+ for moderate cases 40-75 gallons: 4-6 nudibranchs for moderate infestations, 8+ for heavy cases 100+ gallons: 8-12 nudibranchs for widespread infestations Larger groups work faster and more effectively, as Berghia reproduce and feed cooperatively. At our facility, we aquaculture Berghia nudibranchs in-house, ensuring they are healthy, well-acclimated, and actively feeding before shipping.
Care Requirements
Care Level: Moderate – Requires a steady supply of Aiptasia Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons Aquarium Setup: Prefers low-flow areas with ample rockwork Berghia nudibranchs are nocturnal hunters, so they are often less visible during the day. They move slowly and deliberately, blending into the reef as they feed on Aiptasia.
Diet & Nutrition
Berghia nudibranchs are obligate Aiptasia predators, meaning they cannot survive on any other food source. Diet: Carnivorous – Eats only Aiptasia anemones Feeding Considerations: Requires a moderate to heavy Aiptasia infestation to sustain them Once Aiptasia is eliminated, Berghia will starve unless relocated to another tank with Aiptasia Best used in groups of 2+ for efficiency, as they reproduce and feed cooperatively Because of their specialized diet, Berghia should not be purchased unless Aiptasia is present in the aquarium.
Lifespan & Growth Rate
Lifespan: 6-12 months Growth Rate: Moderate – Can grow up to 1.5 inches Berghia nudibranchs reproduce readily in aquariums, laying spiral egg clusters. If conditions are favorable, they can naturally sustain a population as long as Aiptasia is available.
Temperament & Compatibility
Temperament: Peaceful – Harmless to corals, fish, and invertebrates Reef Safe? Yes – Will not harm coral or other tank inhabitants Berghia nudibranchs are delicate and defenseless, making them incompatible with: Wrasses and dottybacks (which may eat them) Pufferfish and triggers (which may nip at them) They thrive best in peaceful reef tanks without aggressive predators.
Common Challenges & Considerations
Requires Aiptasia to Survive: Will starve once Aiptasia is gone unless relocated. Nocturnal & Delicate: Best introduced into low-flow, predator-free areas at night. Slow Population Control: Works best in groups for effective Aiptasia elimination. For best results, reduce predator risk and supplement with multiple Berghia to speed up the eradication process.
Water Conditions
Temperature: 74-78°F dKH (Alkalinity): 8-12 pH: 8.1-8.4 Specific Gravity: 1.024-1.026 Berghia nudibranchs thrive in stable reef conditions and are sensitive to rapid parameter swings. Why Choose Our Aquacultured Berghia Nudibranchs? Unlike wild-caught nudibranchs, our aquacultured Berghia: Are acclimated to home aquariums Are free of hitchhikers or parasites Arrive actively feeding on Aiptasia Are bred in-house for optimal health By aquaculturing them in controlled conditions, we ensure hardier specimens that adapt more successfully to reef tanks.
At Top Shelf Aquatics, we take pride in ensuring your order arrives safely and in perfect condition. Here’s everything you need to know about our shipping process:
Livestock Shipping Details
- Flat Rate Shipping:
- $39.99 Out of State
- $34.99 Florida (In-State)
- Orders over $299 ship FREE!
- NO FREE Shipping during Sale Events
- Shipping Days: The calendar during checkout determines when your livestock order will arrive. Normally we ship Monday - Thursday via FedEx Priority Overnight.
Orders placed by 2 PM EST Monday - Thursday ship the same day. Orders placed after 2 PM or on Fridays will ship the next business day. - Delivery Times: Most packages arrive by 10:30 AM EST, though remote areas may experience later deliveries.
We take every measure to protect your livestock, including specialized packaging to maintain temperature and safety during transit.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy
In the rare event of a DOA, you must submit a DOA Request within 2 hours of delivery (FedEx posted time). Once submitted, we will issue a replacement or store credit for the livestock. Please note:
- Shipping costs are not included in the credit.
- Refunds are not offered for livestock or shipping.
While we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by mechanical or weather issues, rest assured we’ll do everything possible to make it right!
Reef Guard Protection Plan
For ultimate peace of mind, upgrade to our Reef Guard Protection Plan. With Reef Guard, you’ll enjoy:
- Extended Livestock Guarantee: Coverage for up to 5 days.
- Priority Resolutions: Hassle-free claims with fast resolutions.
- Weather & Shipping Delay Coverage: Includes FedEx lost packages and damages.
Shipping Restrictions
- We currently ship livestock only within the continental U.S.
- Note: Due to Hawaii state law, we are unable to ship corals to Hawaii.
Now’s the perfect time to prepare your aquarium for its new additions. Consider doing a water change and ensuring space is ready. Check out our YouTube channel for detailed care instructions for your new corals!
For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our support team. We’re here to help make your reefing journey a success!
5 Day Reef Guard
Temp-Control Box
Priority Overnight
Expert Care Support