Sea Hare

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Sea Hares are large marine gastropods renowned for their exceptional appetite for algae. They are particularly useful in mature reef aquariums experiencing persistent hair algae and other unwanted algae growth.

Their soft, slug-like bodies can range from brown and green to mottled or patterned colours, helping them blend into live rock and algae-covered surfaces. They spend much of their time grazing across rocks, glass and other hard surfaces.

Sea Hares are generally peaceful and reef safe, making them compatible with fish, corals and many other aquarium inhabitants. However, they require a reliable food supply and should not be added to an aquarium simply because algae is currently abundant. Once the algae is significantly reduced, supplementary feeding may be necessary.

They can release a purple ink-like defensive secretion when stressed or threatened. In a well-maintained aquarium this is uncommon, but good filtration and activated carbon are recommended when keeping larger specimens.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Dolabella sp.
• Common Name: Sea Hare
• Type: Marine Gastropod / Algae Eater
• Adult Size: Approximately 15–30+ cm, depending on species
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate
• Minimum Aquarium: 150 L recommended
• Temperature: 23–27°C
• pH: 8.0–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Diet: Marine algae / Hair algae
• Tank Level: Rockwork / Glass / Substrate
• Activity: Primarily grazing
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Aquarium Type: Mature marine / reef aquarium
• Supplementary Food: Marine algae sheets if natural algae becomes insufficient

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Sea Hare reef safe?

Yes. Sea Hares are generally reef safe and primarily consume algae rather than corals or sessile invertebrates.

What does a Sea Hare eat?

They mainly graze on algae, with hair algae being one of their preferred food sources. Supplementary algae may be required once natural growth becomes limited.

Will a Sea Hare eat hair algae?

Yes. They are particularly valued for their ability to consume substantial amounts of hair algae.

Can a Sea Hare run out of food?

Yes. This is one of the biggest considerations when keeping one. Once algae levels decline, supplementary feeding may be necessary.

Can Sea Hares release ink?

Yes. When seriously stressed or threatened, some Sea Hares can release a purple defensive secretion. Good mechanical filtration and activated carbon are recommended.

Are Sea Hares suitable for new aquariums?

They are better suited to mature aquariums with established algae growth. A new aquarium may not provide enough consistent food.

Common Mistakes

• Adding a Sea Hare without sufficient algae available.
• Assuming it will permanently solve an algae problem.
• Not providing supplementary food when algae becomes scarce.
• Keeping it in an aquarium with exposed pump intakes.
• Handling or disturbing it unnecessarily.
• Failing to use adequate filtration if the animal releases defensive ink.