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The Sowerby's Sea Hare (Aplysia sowerbyi) is one of the largest sea hare species found along the east coast of Australia. It belongs to the opisthobranch Sea Hare family Aplysiidae and the common name of sea hares is derived from their large tentacles which look similar to the large ears of a hare (rabbit). This species can be found in sheltered estuaries and embayments and is often found in amongst seagrasses and sandy bottoms. This species can be recognised by its brown coloured body which is covered in black veins with white blotches. When this species is disturbed it will eject purple ink in defense to detour any predators. Over the summer period this sea hare will lay egg masses that are long, red/pink in colour, and look like spaghetti. The Sowerby’s Sea Hare (Aplysia sowerbyi) grows to at least 50cm in length.
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