Japanese researchers have discovered a sea slug that they say can detach, re-grow and then re-use its penis. Well, we know what we’re coming back as in the next life…
The Japanese researchers in question made the surprising discovery after collecting the slugs from shallow coral reefs around Japan (these stories always come from Japan). They believe the Chromodoris reticulata is the first creature known that can have sex with what they describe as a “disposable penis”.
The Chromodoris reticulata actually has a fairly complicated sex life. The sea slugs are known as nudibranchs, which means they’re “simultaneous hermaphrodites”. Still confused? Well a hermaphrodite has both male and female sexual organs. So when two Chromodoris reticulata come together they can simultaneously penetrate each other’s vaginas with their penises. It’s a bit… mad, to be honest.
After sex the Chromodoris reticulata pulls out and sheds its penis and 24 hours later, it’s back with another one. But why? Well, the researchers believe that the first time a Chromodoris reticulata mates with its partner, it uses the penis to remove any sperm that was left from its partner’s previous ‘lover’. It then uses its second penis to plant the seed ensuring that its DNA is passed on.
Who knew sea slug sex would be so damn fascinating?
