Caudinidae
The Caudinidae are a family of sea cucumbers in the order Dendrochirotida. They are commonly known as “caudinids” and are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, which can be up to 30 cm (12 in) long. They are typically found in shallow, rocky or sandy areas of the ocean floor, ranging from the intertidal zone to depths of several hundred meters.
Characteristics
Caudinids have several distinctive features that distinguish them from other sea cucumbers:
- Elongated, cylindrical body: Caudinids have a long, slender body that is often pointed at both ends.
- Reduced tentacles: Unlike many other sea cucumbers, caudinids have only a small number of short, stubby tentacles around their mouth.
- Well-developed calcareous ring: Caudinids have a strong, calcified ring around their esophagus, which helps to support their body and provides attachment points for muscles.
- No respiratory trees: Caudinids lack the respiratory trees that are found in many other sea cucumbers.
- Presence of cuvierian tubules: They are capable of ejecting sticky, thread-like cuvierian tubules from their anus as a defense mechanism.
Environment and Distribution
Caudinids are found in a variety of marine habitats, primarily in shallow, rocky or sandy areas. They are often found attached to rocks or buried in the sediment. They are known to occur in both tropical and temperate waters around the world.
References
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