Neothyonidium parvum is a species of sea cucumber belonging to the family Phyllophoridae. It is a small, often overlooked creature that plays a significant role in marine ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Neothyonidium parvum is a small sea cucumber, typically reaching a maximum size of a few centimeters in length. Its body is elongated and cylindrical, with a smooth, leathery texture. The color of Neothyonidium parvum can vary, ranging from pale brown to reddish-brown. It possesses numerous tentacles around its mouth, which it uses to collect food.
Habitat and Occurrence
Neothyonidium parvum is typically found in shallow, coastal waters, often inhabiting rocky substrates and seagrass beds. It is a common inhabitant of the intertidal zone, where it is exposed to fluctuating tides. This species is widely distributed, with a presence in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It prefers warmer waters and can be found in various marine zones, from the neritic zone to the epipelagic zone.
Taxonomy
Neothyonidium parvum belongs to the Class: Holothuroidea, Order: Dendrochirotida, and Family: Phyllophoridae. This classification places it within a group of echinoderms known for their elongated, soft-bodied forms and feeding mechanisms.
Feeding
Like other sea cucumbers, Neothyonidium parvum is a deposit feeder. It uses its tentacles to collect organic debris, sediment, and small organisms from the seafloor. This feeding strategy makes it an important component of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the recycling of nutrients.
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