Characteristics
Dendrochirotid sea cucumbers are easily distinguished by their elongated bodies, which can reach lengths of several feet. Their most striking feature is their "dendritic" tentacles, which are long, branched, and resemble miniature trees. These tentacles are highly specialized for feeding, allowing the animals to filter food particles from the water column. Other key characteristics include a reduced calcareous ring, a single respiratory tree, and a body wall that is often covered in small, granular spicules.
Environment
Dendrochirotid sea cucumbers are primarily found in marine environments, inhabiting a variety of habitats, from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea trenches. They are particularly common in soft-bottom sediments, where they burrow into the substrate using their muscular bodies. Some species are also known to live among coral reefs or in association with sponges.
Feeding
Dendrochirotid sea cucumbers are suspension feeders, meaning they capture food particles from the water column. Their dendritic tentacles are covered in sticky mucus that traps microscopic organisms such as plankton, algae, and detritus. The tentacles are then drawn into the mouth, where the food is ingested.
References
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