Endeidae
Endeidae is a family of sea cucumbers in the order Dendrochirotida. They are commonly known as “burrowing sea cucumbers” or “sandfish.” Endeidae is a small family with only 12 known species, all of which are found in marine environments.
Characteristics
Endeidae are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, which are typically 5 to 15 centimeters long. They have a smooth, leathery skin with a distinctive, almost translucent appearance. These sea cucumbers have a distinctive "U-shaped" mouth with a ring of tentacles surrounding it. These tentacles are used to collect food, primarily sediment and detritus. Unlike some other sea cucumbers, Endeidae lack tube feet and instead move by burrowing through the sand. They are also known to possess a "cuvierian tubules," which are sticky, thread-like organs used for defense against predators.
Environment
Endeidae sea cucumbers are found in a variety of marine environments, including sandy bottoms, mudflats, and seagrass meadows. They are typically found in shallow waters, although some species can be found at depths of up to 100 meters. Endeidae play an important role in their ecosystems as detritivores, helping to break down organic matter and recycle nutrients. They are also a food source for various marine animals, including fish and crabs.
Distribution
Endeidae have a wide distribution, found in all the major oceans of the world. They are most common in tropical and subtropical waters, but some species can be found in temperate regions as well.
References
You can find more information about Endeidae on these reputable websites: