Nudibranchs are shell-less, soft-bodied sea molluscs which live on seabeds and are particularly abundant in shallow waters. The creatures’ scientific name, nudibranchia, means naked gills, referring to the feathery gills found on their back. More than 140 species have been spotted in Port Stephens’ waters and the creatures’ vibrant hues and intricate patterns regularly draw divers from throughout the country and overseas to the area, which is renowned for having some of the best shore dive sites in Australia.
In December 2013, researchers from Southern Cross University and the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park began working with volunteer divers to officially record nudibranch diversity. The upcoming event on Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 2014 will celebrate the anniversary of the sea slug initiative.
World-renowned nudibranch expert, Dr Richard Willan, curator of molluscs at the Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory, will give public lectures, touch tanks will be set up at D’Albora Marinas and divers can vie for the title of the best nudi spotter for the full 24 hours of the Saturday. Local schools will also be involved, with students creating artworks featuring nudibranchs.
For more information on the Nelson Bay Nudi Festival call (02) 6648 3908. Nudibranch_Colouring_In_Competition.pdf
Nelson Bay Nudi Festival
When: Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14, 2014
Where: Nelson Bay, Port Stephens
Colouring In Competition: Click here to download the Nudibranch_Colouring_In_Competition.pdf and take to the marina on Saturday where they will be displayed
For detailed information on accommodation, dining, attractions, activities, holiday deals and maps, Destination Port Stephens’ website -www.portstephens.org.au - provides a one-stop-shop on visiting Port Stephens.
Accommodation availability can be found here. Stay in Port Stephens.
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