Euapta
Euapta is a genus of sea cucumbers in the family Synaptidae. They are commonly referred to as “burrowing sea cucumbers” due to their characteristic behavior of digging into soft sediments. These animals are found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting various depths and habitats.
Characteristics
Euapta species exhibit a range of body sizes, with some reaching lengths of over 30 cm. Their bodies are typically cylindrical and elongated, lacking the prominent tentacles found in other sea cucumber groups. They possess a smooth, leathery skin that can be either brightly colored or dull, depending on the species. These sea cucumbers are characterized by their ability to burrow into sand or mud using muscular contractions of their bodies.
Environments
Euapta sea cucumbers are found in various marine environments, including:
- Shallow coastal waters
- Deep-sea trenches
- Intertidal zones
- Coral reefs
They prefer soft sediments, such as sand, mud, or silt, where they can burrow and feed on organic matter.
References
For further information on Euapta, refer to the following reliable sources: