Actinopyga
Actinopyga is a genus of sea cucumbers belonging to the family Holothuriidae. These marine invertebrates are commonly known as “sandfish” due to their burrowing habits. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, inhabiting a variety of marine environments, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy bottoms.
Characteristics
Members of the Actinopyga genus are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies and leathery skin. They typically range in size from a few centimeters to over a meter in length. Their color can vary widely, ranging from brown, grey, and black to shades of green, red, and orange. These sea cucumbers possess numerous tentacles around their mouths, which they use to gather food. They also have a distinctive pattern of calcareous ossicles embedded in their skin, which are used for identification.
Environment
Actinopyga species are primarily found in shallow waters, typically at depths of less than 30 meters. They prefer habitats with soft sediments, such as sand or mud, where they can burrow and hide from predators. These sea cucumbers play an important role in marine ecosystems, acting as detritivores, consuming decaying organic matter and contributing to nutrient cycling.
Species
The Actinopyga genus includes numerous species, some of the most common include:
- Actinopyga echinites (Black teatfish)
- Actinopyga lecanora (Tigerfish)
- Actinopyga miliaris (White teatfish)
- Actinopyga mauritiana (Mauritian teatfish)
References
WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species
ResearchGate: Actinopyga echinites: A Key Species for Biodiversity Conservation in the Indo-Pacific Region