Leptosynapta clarki is a species of sea cucumber belonging to the family Synaptidae. These sea cucumbers are commonly found in a variety of marine environments, contributing to the biodiversity of these ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Leptosynapta clarki is a slender, worm-like sea cucumber with a smooth, leathery body. It typically reaches a maximum size of approximately 10 centimeters in length. The body is often translucent, allowing for the visualization of internal organs. Like other sea cucumbers, Leptosynapta clarki possesses a characteristic tube feet along its body, which are used for locomotion and feeding.
Habitat and Occurrence
Leptosynapta clarki is a common inhabitant of intertidal and subtidal zones, particularly in sandy and muddy substrates. It is typically found in shallow waters, with a depth range extending from the intertidal zone to approximately 50 meters. Leptosynapta clarki thrives in both the neritic and oceanic zones, playing a vital role in the marine food web within these environments.
Taxonomy
Leptosynapta clarki is classified within the phylum Echinodermata, which encompasses a diverse group of marine invertebrates including sea stars, sea urchins, and brittle stars. It belongs to the class Holothuroidea, which includes all sea cucumbers, further categorized under the order Apodida. This order contains sea cucumbers lacking appendages, characterized by their elongated, worm-like bodies, and is further subdivided into the family Synaptidae, encompassing a variety of burrowing and deposit-feeding sea cucumbers.
Feeding
Leptosynapta clarki is a deposit feeder, consuming organic matter from the sediment. It utilizes its tube feet to gather food particles, which are then transported to its mouth, located at one end of the elongated body. Leptosynapta clarki plays a significant role in sediment turnover and nutrient cycling within its habitat.
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