Pikachu Nudibranch (Thecacera pacifica) - Marine Life - Liveaboard Diving
Pikachu Nudibranch (Thecacera pacifica) - Marine Life - Liveaboard Diving

Pikachu Nudibranch

The Pikachu Nudibranch (Thecacera pacifica) got its name from the Japanese Pokémon cartoon character which it resembles. This is a small species of nudibranch and not easy to spot. Therefore, sightings are special. 

Pikachu Nudibranch
Pikachu Nudibranch
Credit: Johan Folmeus
Pikachu Nudibranch Thecacera pacifica
Scientific Rank
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:
Mollusca (Mollusks / Molluscs)
Class:
Gastropoda
Order: Nudibranchia (Nudibranchs)
Family: Polyceridae (Polyceridae)
Genus: Thecacera (Thecacera)
Species: Thecacera pacifica
Size
Average Size: 2 centimetres

Thecacera pacifica is found across the Indian Ocean and western Pacific. Some reported sightings also include The Gulf of Mexico, but these are unconfirmed. It is a rare species, and sightings are regarded as special. 

Like many similar creatures, such as sea slugs and other nudibranchs, experts prefer not to refer to them by their common name. The scientific name is far more reliable. However, in this case, the common name is very popular.

Pikachus are exciting to spot on a dive, even if you're not someone who's particularly interested in nudis. And if you do see one but you don't care, please highlight it to other divers in your group, or to your guide, because these little chaps are very popular and you will be thanked.

No Troubles Just Bubbles' divers who recently saw Pikachu Nudibranch

Robert
Spotted in: Thailand Thailand
Diving from boat: MV Explorer
Trip destinations: Similan Islands, Koh Bon, Tachai, Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock
When: Feb 2024

Have you ever seen Pikachu Nudibranch when diving?
Is there anything you would like to add or change about the Pikachu Nudibranch?
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Comments

Ivana Savvidou
0
Ivana Savvidou
7 months ago
Saw one two days ago in Malaysia. Kapalai island Borneo
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Silvia Gao
0
Silvia Gao
1 year ago
You can also see them in Anilao, Philipines .
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Yen
0
Yen
1 year ago
In Malaysia - Mabul island, Selakan island, Kapalai island, Sipadan island (Borneo), and Perhentian island on Peninsula Malaysia
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Louisa
1
Louisa
1 year ago
In Addu Atoll, Maldives. Many!!
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