Berghia Nudibranch - Aiptasia Destroyers - Reef Genetics

Berghia nudibranchs are a targeted biological solution for Aiptasia infestations in saltwater aquariums. As obligate predators, their diet consists exclusively of Aiptasia anemones — they will not consume corals, sessile invertebrates, or other tank inhabitants. This specificity makes them one of the cleaner options for pest control compared to chemical treatments or generalist predators that may disrupt the broader reef ecosystem. Reef Genetics aquacultures these nudibranchs in-house, meaning the animals arrive already acclimated to aquarium conditions and actively feeding.

Two size variants are available. Regular Berghia are suited for lighter infestations and smaller tank footprints. XL individuals are more productive: each is capable of consuming 2–5 Aiptasia per day and laying spiral egg sacs containing 200–500 eggs on a roughly 14-day cycle. Reef Genetics recommends one XL Berghia per 30 gallons of aquarium water, with a minimum order of three to support cooperative feeding and reproduction. Larger groups consistently outperform single introductions — Berghia tend to locate prey and reproduce more efficiently when kept in colonies.

Berghia are nocturnal hunters and will spend most daylight hours tucked into rockwork. They prefer low-to-moderate flow areas and need ample rock structure to avoid predation. Dosing guidelines by tank size: 2–3 nudibranchs for light infestations in tanks up to 30 gallons, 4–6 for moderate cases in 40–75 gallon systems, and 8–12 or more for heavy infestations in tanks over 100 gallons. Lifespan runs 6–12 months, and individuals can reach up to 1.5 inches. Once Aiptasia is eliminated, the population will naturally decline — if the tank runs out of prey, surviving animals should be relocated to another system with Aiptasia present.

Compatibility requires attention. Berghia are defenseless and will be consumed by wrasses, dottybacks, pufferfish, triggers, carnivorous shrimp, and filefish. They are best introduced into predator-controlled systems or isolated sections of the tank at night. Water parameters should remain stable: 74–78°F, pH 8.1–8.4, specific gravity 1.024–1.026, and alkalinity 8–12 dKH. Berghia are sensitive to rapid parameter swings and should be drip-acclimated before introduction.